Actively working to improve the Nation’s culture of cybersecurity, the Center for Infrastructure Assurance and Security (CIAS) at the University of Texas at San Antonio has developed Cyber Threat Protector, a new tabletop card game that is designed to introduce cybersecurity principles and safety to players – beginning in the third grade.
Cyber Threat Protector is a two-player card game designed to teach essential cybersecurity information and strategies to students as young as eight-years-old. Inspired by card games that students are already familiar with, such as its companion game Cyber Threat Defender, Cyber Threat Protector is an engaging game regardless of age or skill level.
“When designing Cyber Threat Protector, our goal was to make the game fun first, and educational second,” said Larry Sjelin, director of game development at the CIAS. “Simple to learn and easy to play, it introduces students to the concepts and strategies needed to build a safe network and protect it from common cyber threats. This is also a great way to keep young players engaged whether in the classroom or for distance learning activities.”
Using a single deck of cards, players work to quickly build their network while simultaneously protecting their network from cyber-attacks. Cyber Threat Protector is designed to complement any STEM curriculum and introduces game play and cyber concepts also found in Cyber Threat Defender, a collectible card game used to teach cybersecurity to students in middle and high school.
Educators from San Antonio classrooms, which beta-tested Cyber Threat Protector, have shared their enthusiasm for its versatility and use in the classroom, after school clubs, school enrichment activities and personal use during recess or at home with family.
“There are many STEM and cyber-related games and activities that target middle and high school students, but there’s been a deficit in resources for elementary-aged students. This innovative game meets the demand from teachers nationwide to introduce concepts like cybersecurity to these young students,” added Sjelin.
The production and distribution of the game, at no cost to teachers, is reliant on financial donations and sponsorship support. For more information about Cyber Threat Protector, how you can support students in your area or purchase your own deck, visit CIASGaming.com.
