A solid defence is essential in baseball and cyberspace. The University of Nevada, Reno Cybersecurity Center and Internet of Things (IoT) cybersecurity company Viakoo are supporting cybersecurity awareness during the Reno Aces 2025 season.
Viakoo will donate to the Cybersecurity Center every time the Aces make a defensive play that prevents the opposing team from stealing base, and light up the stadium with “A Salute to Cyber Defenders” across all signage.
As part of this promotion, Viakoo CEO Bud Broomhead will present Cybersecurity Director Shamik Sengupta with a $5,000 cheque at the Aces’ Aug. 13 home game.
Modern challenges of cybersecurity
“We are deeply grateful for Viakoo’s support in our mission to meet the modern challenges of cybersecurity,” Sengupta said. “Threats to our data and our infrastructure are always increasing, and it’s crucial to prepare the next generation of cybersecurity experts to meet that challenge.”
“Delivering innovation in cybersecurity is required to combat rising threats in our digitally connected world, and higher education plays a vital frontline role in this,” Broomhead said. “By working with UNR, a recognised leader in cybersecurity education, we are confident in the next generation of cyber defenders being prepared for these challenges.”
Massive attack surface
Cyber threats from IoT systems pose a severe risk to both the digital and physical worlds
Cyber threats from IoT systems pose a severe risk to both the digital and physical worlds. Within enterprises, there are billions of unsecured devices, from smart cameras to industrial controls in power grids and factories, which create a massive attack surface.
Hackers exploit outdated firmware, weak or default passwords, or lack of certificates to create powerful botnets, launch crippling denial-of-service attacks, or even cause dangerous real-world disruption and equipment failure.
Dangerous real-world disruption
Northern Nevada plays a key role in ensuring strong cyber defence. Whether in the form of legislation promoted by Congressman Mark Amodei, the growth of cybersecurity companies in the Greater Reno area, or the leadership provided by UNR’s Cybersecurity Center, the region plays a critical role in assuring the security of individuals and organisations.
The Cybersecurity Center works to develop solutions to cybersecurity issues for the benefit of the community. The annual Cybersecurity Conference, open to the public and free of charge, is on Nov. 6 on the University of Nevada, Reno campus.
