FINTECH

MODULE VI

CYBERSECURITY

About Module VI

Module VI builds practical cybersecurity awareness for FinTechs and SMEs. It covers phishing, ransomware, social engineering, cyber fraud, digital identity, biometrics, data protection, governance, incident response and security controls. Realistic stories show how human behaviour, weak processes and technical gaps create risk, while learners develop stronger prevention, recovery and cybersecurity action-planning skills.

What You Will Learn

After the end of Module VI, you will be able to:

  • Knowledge 5

    Identify common cybersecurity threats and fraud tactics targeting SMEs by demonstrating comprehensive understanding of core theories, principles, terminology, and contextual relevance in the domain.

  • Knowledge 5

    Understand key principles of data protection and digital identity by demonstrating comprehensive understanding of core theories, principles, terminology, and contextual relevance in the domain.

  • Knowledge 5

    Recognise the role of employees in defending against phishing and malware by demonstrating comprehensive understanding of core theories, principles, terminology, and contextual relevance in the domain.

  • Knowledge 5

    Describe the importance of cybersecurity governance and leadership by demonstrating comprehensive understanding of core theories, principles, terminology, and contextual relevance in the domain.

  • Skill 6

    Apply best practices in incident response and cyber risk management through structured application of tools, analytical reasoning or methodologies.

  • Responsibility & Autonomy 6

    Implement practical cybersecurity tools and controls by making informed decisions, managing assigned tasks independently or collaboratively, and evaluating the quality of outcomes within a defined scope of responsibility

  • Responsibility & Autonomy 6

    Promote a cyber-aware culture by making informed decisions, managing assigned tasks independently or collaboratively, and evaluating the quality of outcomes within a defined scope of responsibility.

Revision note (April 2026): This module incorporates the latest EU regulatory updates as of April 2026: DORA – Reg (EU) 2022/2554 fully applicable since 17 January 2025; GDPR – Reg (EU) 2016/679 (Module III LT4); eIDAS 2.0 – Reg (EU) 2024/1183 (EU Digital Identity Wallets by November 2026); NIS2 – Dir (EU) 2022/2555 (transposition deadline 17 October 2024); Cyber Resilience Act – Reg (EU) 2024/2847 (entered into force 10 December 2024; main obligations apply from 11 December 2027); AI Act – Reg (EU) 2024/1689 (cross-reference to Module IV LT9). It is fully aligned with Module II (FinTech ecosystem), Module III (regulatory framework), Module IV (AI/Data Science) and Module V, with explicit cross-references where deeper treatment is needed.

Contents

Learning Topic 1: Introduction to Cybersecurity and the SME Threat Landscape

  • Storytelling: Lucia’s Tuesday Night
  • LESSON 1.1 – Definition and Strategic Importance for FinTech / SMEs [Intermediate]
  • LESSON 1.2 – The CIA Triad of Protection [Intermediate]
  • LESSON 1.3 – Characteristics of the SME Threat Landscape [Intermediate]
  • LESSON 1.4 – Typical Cyber-Attacks Targeting SMEs [Intermediate]
  • LESSON 1.5 – Metrics and Trends [Advanced]

Learning Topic 2: Common Threats – Phishing, Ransomware, Social Engineering

Learning Topic 3: Cyber Fraud and End-User Security Behaviour

Learning Topic 4: Digital Identity & Biometric Authentication Explained

Learning Topic 5: Data Protection and Cybersecurity – Key Principles for SMEs
🔗 Topic scope and cross-reference This topic focuses on data protection from a cybersecurity perspective: breach prevention, security controls, and organisational practices. For a comprehensive treatment of the GDPR framework – including legal bases, data subject rights, Data Protection Impact Assessments, and the full compliance lifecycle – see Module III, Learning Topic 4: GDPR and Data Protection in Finance.

Learning Topic 6: Cybersecurity Governance, Roles & Responsibilities

Learning Topic 7: Incident Response and Recovery Strategies

Learning Topic 8: Tools and Controls – Antivirus, MFA, Network Monitoring

Learning Topic 9: Capstone – Cyber Threat Simulation & Action Plan Design

References and Final Assessment

Download MODULE VI

Free
Free access this course

Requirements

  • Registration on the A2FINTECS platform
  • Stable internet connection
  • Basic knowledge of finance (Module I)
  • Suitable for Intermediate or Advanced learners

Target Audience

  • SME owners, managers and and Non-Technical Staff
  • IT and Risk Managers
  • Compliance Officers
  • Trainers working with SMEs
  • Learners with basic finance knowledge

Disclaimer. Material for Educational Purpose Only
The content on this platform is provided solely for educational and informational purposes and does not constitute financial, investment, legal, or tax advice. We do not recommend or endorse any specific cryptocurrency, financial product, or investment strategy. Cryptocurrencies are volatile and high-risk assets, and any investment decision is made at the user’s own responsibility. Users should seek advice from a qualified financial advisor before making financial decisions.