Hello, World!—Code Responsibly

Many security exploits target vulnerabilities that are a result of poorly designed and implemented software. Despite its critical importance, secure coding is primarily taught in upper-level elective computer science (CS) classes. As a result, most students graduate with little or no exposure to secure coding techniques. We believe that it is important to teach responsible coding early, starting in the first programming course, and often, by repeating and reinforcing security concepts in advanced courses. At Towson University, we have developed modules that teach students to code securely and responsibly from the first class: the Security Injections @Towson project.