IDDA has organized its next cybersecurity awareness training for senior executives
The Azerbaijan Cybersecurity Center operating under the Innovation and Digital Development Agency (IDDA), has organized a cybersecurity awareness training for senior executives of Azerbaijan Airlines (AZAL), a company within AZCON Holding, in partnership with the Technion – Israel Institute of Technology under the “CyberCollab” initiative. More than 50 senior representatives from AZAL took part in the program.
Speaking at the opening of the event, IDDA Deputy Chairman Shahin Aliyev emphasized the growing cybersecurity risks in the aviation sector and highlighted the importance of ensuring that senior executives are well-prepared to counter cyber threats, stressing the critical role of specialized cybersecurity training.
The training continued with sessions led by experts from the Technion. Participants explored risk mapping based on real airline data breaches, protection of critical information, and the key steps leadership must take in the event of an incident. A simulated cyberattack scenario allowed executives to assess the impact of an attack on flight operations, reservation systems, and passenger communication channels. They also practiced decision-making related to system restoration, prioritization, and maintaining service continuity.
During the sessions, participants examined real cases of fraud attacks targeting senior officials—attacks capable of causing significant financial and reputational damage—and received recommendations on strengthening internal procedures.
A dedicated session on artificial intelligence covered both the opportunities and risks AI introduces to cyber defense and cyber offense. Senior executives learned about AI-driven defense solutions, as well as the strategic preparedness measures required to enhance organizational resilience against AI-enabled attacks.
In a team-based simulation exercise, executives practiced operational decision-making, communication, and crisis management during a cyber incident.
The program concluded with a roundtable discussion featuring the speakers and the presentation of research findings related to the aviation sector.
Since its establishment, the Azerbaijan Cybersecurity Center has delivered cybersecurity awareness training to nearly 200 senior officials. Participants have included representatives from the Ministry of Agriculture, subordinate institutions of the Ministry of Digital Development and Transport, as well as organizations operating in the FinTech and oil-gas sectors.
