An Iterative Approach to Strengthening Cybersecurity Awareness in Higher Education Institutions - a Follow-Up Study

This article provides an overview of the Technical University of Cluj-Napoca's digital ecosystem, focusing on a digital security protocol that includes simulations, training, and awareness resources to tackle cyber vulnerabilities. It analyzes user behavior during cyber attacks and aims to raise awareness among the academic community about these risks while documenting preventive measures. A new iteration of simulation of cyber-attack techniques within the Technical University of Cluj-Napoca is proposed, comparative analysis of the results obtained from previous simulations of 2023 is conducted, consolidating the prevention practices promoted within the institution, based on centralization and analysis of results. Findings highlight implications for cybersecurity education in higher education, including the development of tailored learning modules to address skill gaps and improve digital infrastructure resilience. The results show that certain phishing techniques, like Drive-by URLs, were effective despite mitigation strategies, pointing to varying user awareness levels. (Abstract)