The Archdiocese of Los Angeles, the FBI, and a coalition of law enforcement agencies teamed up to host the 11th Annual Cyber Crime Prevention Symposium on Oct. 28, in a day-long seminar aimed at educating students, parents, and teachers about a wide array of information on cyber safety. 

“Cyberspace has become a dangerous place for adults and children alike. It is incumbent on law enforcement to provide the community with the necessary skills to stay safe in this online world,” said United States Attorney Nick Hanna. “This important symposium plays a vital role in presenting a variety of relevant approaches and tactics that will guide children and adults to safer online behavior.”

Three schools were presented awards for their work in the field, including Our Lady of Refuge (Long Beach) taking home the Technology and Research Award. St. Charles Borromeo (North Hollywood) received the Impact Award, and St. Thomas More (Alhambra) won the Creativity Award.

“The Archdiocese of Los Angeles is proud to be a partner in this ongoing and collaborative effort to keep young people safe online,” said Heather T. Banis, Ph.D., who is the coordinator of the Victims Assistant Ministry for the Archdiocese. “We are especially grateful that students in our schools are taking what they learn at the symposium and transforming that knowledge into creative and impactful programs they then deliver at their parishes and schools.”