Listener’s Day on RRI

A special broadcast marking Radio Day

Vlad Palcu and Cristina Mateescu, 02.11.2025, 14:00

Hello friends of RRI!

Every year, on November 1, Radio Romania celebrates Radio Day, marking the first broadcast of the Romanian Radio Broadcasting Corporation back in 1928. To celebrate this special event, Radio Romania International hosts its yearly special broadcast this Sunday, inviting listeners to weigh in on a topical subject.

This year we are happy to be able to once again produce a special “Listener’s Day” programme. The topic for this year’s edition was cybersecurity, one that demands growing attention from all users of digital technologies. In a world where every click matters and information and media are exchanged instantly across devices, taking steps to protect ourselves against an increasing number of online threats becomes of paramount importance.

We’ve asked you to share your experience and insights in this regard, and your responses have been quite perceptive, which is why we’re sharing them with everyone.

We’ve included here not just contributions from regular listeners of the English Service, but from listeners of RRI’s other language departments.

The full broadcast is available in the link at the end.

A big thank you, once again, to everyone who’s helped made our yearly Listener’s Day programme possible!

Bidhan Chandra Sanyal, India

“Addressing these threats requires a coordinated effort involving technology, policy, and education.

Foster a culture of cybersecurity: Businesses and governments need to move beyond simple technical fixes and create a culture of vigilance. This includes regular, realistic training for employees, clear policies on data handling, and rewarding security-conscious behavior.

Invest in AI-powered defenses: To combat AI-driven attacks, we must “fight AI with AI”. This means investing in advanced AI-driven threat detection systems that can analyze patterns, spot anomalies in real-time, and detect malicious deepfakes.

Strengthen authentication protocols: Broader implementation of robust email authentication standards like DMARC can help defend against brand impersonation and sophisticated phishing campaigns.

Increase AI regulation and governance: Policymakers must establish clear regulations on AI development and use, including governance models to ensure AI systems are not designed for deception. Transparency rules for AI-generated content, such as mandatory labeling, could help curb the spread of disinformation.

Enhance international cooperation: Since cyber threats transcend borders, governments must strengthen international collaboration to share threat intelligence and harmonize cyber laws. Establishing a formal cybersecurity board with cross-sector participants can help ensure a swift, coordinated response to major incidents”.

Suresh Kumar Agrawal, India

“I think -In today’s digital world, people’s sense of safety from online threats varies greatly — while tech-savvy individuals often feel confident, many others remain worried about hacking, scams, and data privacy. To protect themselves, individuals should take key steps such as using strong, unique passwords, enabling two-factor authentication, updating software regularly, avoiding suspicious links, and adjusting privacy settings on social media. However, online safety is not just a personal responsibility. Society must also play a role by promoting digital education, enforcing strong data protection laws, holding companies accountable for securing user information, and improving public awareness about cyber risks. Strengthening both personal habits and collective systems is essential to building a safer digital environment for everyone”.

Lakshmi Kant Mukul, India

“Digital Security: Awareness and Collective Responsibility

The digital age has made life more convenient, yet it has also created new dangers. Today, phishing, AI-driven fraud, and misinformation threaten both our personal and social security. Phishing is no longer limited to fake emails; it now involves advanced techniques like spear phishing and deepfakes, where scammers use AI-generated voices or faces to gain trust and deceive people.

At the same time, misinformation spreading on social media is deepening mistrust and division within society. Fake news and fabricated videos distort democratic thinking, blurring the line between truth and illusion.

On an individual level, digital security requires certain essential habits—strong passwords, two-factor authentication, regular updates, and caution against suspicious links. Equally important is digital ethics—not forwarding unverified information and respecting others’ privacy.

On a collective level, education, policy, and platform accountability are crucial. Cyber literacy must be integrated into education; new laws must address AI-related crimes, and social media companies must ensure transparency in their algorithms and content moderation.

Ultimately, digital security depends not only on technology but also on an aware and responsible citizenry. A truly secure society is one where people think before they click—using the digital world with wisdom, caution, and responsibility.

Many many congratulations to all of you for Radio Romania International: Listeners’ Day 2025”.

Fotios Padazopulos, Greece

“Over the last several years I received hundreds of fake invitations to join some company or program and threats about imminent account closure or termination of membership. The list is very long. One particularly dangerous is messages with my bank’s logo advising to click on a link to get into my account. Such messages have always some grammar or syntax errors and their wording is quite unusual and many times wrong. My reaction is to immediately alert my bank which in the USA. At times I received similar messages about my credit cards with an institution in the USA and it was really hard to tell if those messages were legitimate so I called the institution for verification.

As for protection, one must be constantly alert. It is important not to react, instead to take time and think or to type the link I am asked to click on and see what Google search brings on, but even that does not guarantee safety. I do not respond to messages from unknown sources but many years ago I replied to some of them with harsh language or with sarcasm but that can anger the sender and get into one’s computer with devastating consequences.

I rely on the security the browser and Microsoft inherently have, I use a protection program and I also get the security updates as soon as they are available.

Society can only try to stay ahead of internet criminals, shut down their sites and access to internet and punish them with tough sentences.

As for the digital technologies, I hate them, yet, there are times that I have no option but using them as governments and companies offer no alternative. Two questions pop up in my mind: one, what happens when AI functions the wrong way and makes my data available on the internet, two, what happens the day criminals access some AI source or program and take control of it while we don’t much about AI safety margins”.

Richard Contone, USA

“I perceive cyber threats as a real problem in using everyday electronic media. There are many scammers that can access information about you, especially financial type through computers. I feel that the less information that you write on a computer, the better chance that losing your personal information will not happen. Everyone is vulnerable while conveying information on a phone or computer. Although we cannot stop scammers, we can add to our protection by coding any sensitive information with passwords, or do not send any information about ourselves at all. I enjoy reading scientific articles online for knowledge, but digital technology has not contributed to me having a better life. I do not feel safe with a computer, giving any form of ID, or any other information. Younger generations should try to remain anonymous and not broadcast their information digitally”.

Ashok Kansal, India

“I am very glad to learn that Radio Romania International is celebrating its Listeners’ Day 2025 taking place on November 2 (the first Sunday after RRI’s anniversary). This year’s theme focuses on digital safety — from phishing scams to AI-driven fraud and disinformation. and I am very happy to be the part of this Year Listeners ‘ Day . Here i am sharing my views how safe we feel from online threats, what personal steps we take to protect themselves

Cyber threats are a major concern in today’s digital age. Some common problems include:

1. Data breaches: Unauthorized access to sensitive information.
2. Malware: Software designed to harm or exploit systems.
3. Phishing: Deceptive attempts to steal sensitive data or login credentials.
4. Ransomware: Malware demanding payment in exchange for restoring access to data.
5. Identity theft: Stealing personal info for financial gain.
6. Cyberbullying: Harassment or intimidation online.
7. Online scams: Fake schemes to deceive people out of money or info.

To protect yourself, stay informed about the latest threats and best practices!

To become cyber smart, follow these best practices:

1. Use strong passwords: Unique, complex passwords for each account.
2. Enable 2FA: Add an extra layer of security with two-factor authentication.
3. Keep software updated: Regularly update operating systems, browsers, and apps.
4. Be cautious with emails: Avoid suspicious links and attachments.
5. Use antivirus software: Protect against malware and viruses.
6. Use a VPN: Secure your internet connection, especially on public Wi-Fi.
7. Back up data: Regularly back up important files.
8. Stay informed: Follow cybersecurity news and updates.
9. Use secure networks: Avoid public Wi-Fi for sensitive activities.
10. Practice online safety: Be mindful of personal info sharing and online behavior.

Don’t fall for fake part-time job offers promising easy money.

Unknown links = Fraud

Sharing bank details = Big loss

Always verify before you apply!

Stay one step ahead of cyber criminals — report cybercrime!

Take a screenshot of the suspicious message or fake account.

Report and block the profile on the platform (Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, X).

If needed, contact your nearest cyber police station.

Instant Loans Can Be Traps!

If an app offers someone a loan of large amount instantly without any document verification, think twice before accepting. Scammers use such offers to steal his/her phone data, contacts, and personal information — leading to harassment and blackmail.

Verify any loan app’s authenticity on website before downloading

Stay alert, stay safe .

Stay smart, stay cyber safe!

By following these tips, everyone significantly can improve his online security and become more cyber smart!”

Sudhir Pandey, India

“We live in a world where the most serious dangers are no longer confined to the streets or battlefields, but exist in the invisible realm of the Internet. Cybersecurity has become one of the greatest challenges of our time, affecting individuals, institutions, and entire nations. From simple phishing emails and fraudulent phone calls to sophisticated financial scams using AI-generated voices, every user is a potential target. Cybercriminal groups now organize large-scale ransomware attacks, crippling hospitals, universities, and companies, while state-sponsored hackers engage in cyberwarfare—targeting energy grids, communication systems, and spreading disinformation to destabilize societies and influence elections.
Artificial intelligence plays a paradoxical role in this environment. It equips attackers with advanced tools to create realistic fake content and manipulate data, yet it also empowers cybersecurity experts to detect and counter threats more effectively. The same technology that fuels cybercrime can also help fight it, provided it is guided by strong ethical and regulatory frameworks.
Governments and international organizations are responding by implementing stricter cybersecurity laws and promoting awareness. However, protection ultimately starts at the individual level. Small but critical actions—such as using strong, unique passwords, avoiding suspicious links, updating software, and verifying information sources—are the first line of defense.
Cybersecurity is not just a technical necessity; it is a shared social responsibility. In a world increasingly dependent on digital networks, awareness, vigilance, and digital ethics are essential to safeguarding our personal data, institutions, and collective trust in the online world”.

Sarah Boucher, Canada

“Those threats increase the chances of AI replacing people. We need an anti-cyberwarfare. We need all the cybercrime groups jailed. AI makes people’s energy bills increase. Make a stronger password”.

Muhammad Aqeel Bashir, Pakistan

“Greetings from Pakistan! I am very happy to write for your special Listener’s Day 2025 program. I listen to your shows regularly and always learn something new. The topic about cyber threats is very important in today’s world, because almost everyone uses the internet every day.

I think cyber threats are real and dangerous. Many people do not know how to protect themselves online. I always try to be careful. I never share my personal details, photos, or passwords with anyone. I use only trusted websites and avoid clicking strange links. When I download something, I check it first. I also use antivirus on my computer and mobile phone. These small steps help me stay safe, but still I feel a little worried because hackers are becoming smarter.

At the same time, I believe digital technology has made our life easier. It helps me study, learn new skills, listen to international radio stations like RRI, and stay in touch with friends around the world. I have learned many things through online classes and YouTube videos. So, digital life is very useful if we use it in a good and careful way.

I think society should do more to protect people online. The government, schools, and media should teach everyone, especially young children and old people, about internet safety. There should be awareness programs on TV and radio in local languages so that people can understand easily. Parents should also guide their children on how to use the internet safely.

In my opinion, the younger generation is faster in using digital things. They know more about new apps, websites, and social media. But sometimes they also take risks because they use the internet too much and forget to be careful. So, both young and old people need to learn about online safety and help each other.

I want to thank Radio Romania International for this nice idea and for always connecting people from many countries. I really enjoy your English Service programs. Please keep making such thoughtful topics for listeners”.

Jayanta Chakrabarty, India

“In recent times cyber threats have pervaded our life in a big way. Digital crimes have greatly threatened the normal functioning of social institutions, financial and business establishments and government departments. While big business houses and government agencies are somewhat well protected with preventive mechanism to fight against these nefarious activities, common people have been vulnerable and left to the mercy of criminal cyber operators. In a fast developing economy like India, like many other countries, the threats of cyber attacks are more pronounced. The threat actors are often operated by novice hackers or organized highly skilled and sophisticated professionals or even state-sponsored entities. These cyber-criminals use a variety of methods for exploiting technical vulnerabilities to social engineering, to steal money or data, disrupt services, or achieve political goals like espionage, financial theft or cyberwarfare. Their motivations are usually multifaceted covering financial gains, causing disruptions to normal life or having political or personal revenge.

Digital attacks on personal bank accounts and rent-a-bank-account scams are on the rise where cyber criminals lure customers with promise of quick cash. These are traps which can drain one’s savings and even land an innocent account holder to face potential criminal charges and an uncertain future for laundering money. The EV ecosystem is also facing a complex, interconnected and increasingly attractive cyber targets. Cyber attacks like remote-controlled malicious firmware are paralyzing firms’ policies, data thefts, pricing frauds and remote shutdowns of charging infrastructure. Urgent actions by a vigilant watchdog will ensure that electric transportation remain resilient, secure, and prepared for the digital threats. Though AI and digital technologies are a boon and are already playing a vital role in global economic and social prosperity yet we are to remain ever vigilant so that the new technologies are never put to misuse.

Without a robust cybersecurity protocol, secure update mechanisms and absence of hardware level defences will result in a crippling electric-charging infrastructure and large-scale power disruptions. Urgent actions must be taken to ensure that transportation remain resilient, secure, and prepared for the digital threats. Computer systems and data have been directly targeted for committing digital crimes such as hacking, fraud, identity theft and other offences causing immense harm. Misinformation are increasingly being used by enemy countries and their local handlers to ferment societal divide and develop hatred and enmity amongst peace-loving people. Harmful acts such as scams, phishing and cyberattacks have often been found to mix real and false information to defraud unsuspecting victims.

Meeting the challenges of cyber threats and cyber crimes requires a multi-layered well-coordinated and strategic approach. Proactive measures include formulating preventive policies, building up a robust technical defence and continuous training and education programmes. The younger generation are to be utilized in a more meaningful and determined way. The dynamism and energetic youth power are to be empowered with the best of equipment and training to meet the challenges of cyber crimes”.

Amir Jameel, Pakistan

“This year, on the occasion of Listeners’ Day 2025, Radio Romania International English Service has asked its listeners around the world questions on a very important topic and I feel very happy to answer them and to participate in Radio Romania International’s Listeners Day.

1. How Do We Perceive These Threats?

Cyber threats can often feel abstract invisible lines of code, silent intrusions, or seemingly innocent messages that carry malicious intent. Because we can’t always “see” these threats, many people either:

Underestimate them: thinking, “This won’t happen to me,” or believing that only large companies or governments are targets.

Overestimate their own safety: assuming antivirus software or basic digital habits are enough, which can lead to complacency.

Feel overwhelmed: by the complexity of the threats or a perceived lack of control, leading to inaction.

Yet the reality is that everyone is a potential target, whether it’s through:

Phishing (fraudulent emails or calls),

Identity theft,

Ransomware attacks on institutions we rely on (like hospitals or schools),

Or misinformation campaigns that manipulate what we believe or how we vote.

2. Do We Feel Protected or Vulnerable?

Most people live somewhere in between: alert but underprepared.

Protected in the sense that we have access to some tools: antivirus programs, password managers, or built-in security on our devices.

But vulnerable because:

Threats evolve faster than protections.

Many people lack basic digital literacy.

AI now makes fake content (emails, calls, images, even voices) shockingly realistic.

Human error remains the weakest link: one click on a bad link, and the door can open wide.

Even large institutions with dedicated security teams fall victim. That raises the question: how safe can an individual really be?

3. What Should Society Do to Better Defend Itself?

Cybersecurity is a shared responsibility between governments, companies, educators, and citizens. Here’s how each part of society can contribute:

1. Government and International Organizations

Stronger regulations: Mandate stricter data protection laws and hold companies accountable for data breaches.

Cyber defense infrastructure: Just like we have police and military for physical security, we need cyber defense teams that are fast, well-funded, and transparent.

International cooperation: Cybercrime knows no borders. Treating it like global terrorism—with treaties, shared intelligence, and common rules—is key.

1. Companies and Tech Developers

Build security into design (“security by design”): From the moment a new app or system is created, security must be a foundation, not an afterthought.

Update systems regularly: Many breaches happen simply because software is outdated.

Educate users: Make security features clear and guide users toward safer habits.

1. Schools and Education

Digital literacy as a core skill: Just like math or reading, kids (and adults) need to learn:

How to spot a scam.

How to recognize misinformation.

Why strong passwords and privacy matter.

Teach AI awareness: Students should understand how AI-generated content works, and how it can be misused.

1. Individuals (That Means All of Us)

Use strong, unique passwords and two-factor authentication.

Be skeptical: Don’t believe every message, email, or video you see especially if it triggers a strong emotional response.

Back up your data: Ransomware loses power if we don’t lose access to our information.

Talk about it: Cybersecurity becomes more powerful when it’s part of everyday conversation not just something left to the experts.

• We live in a time where the battlefield has moved into our homes, our phones, and our minds. Cyber threats are real, growing, and often invisible. While it’s easy to feel vulnerable, awareness, education, and collaboration are our strongest defenses.

• By combining smart personal habits with broader societal actions from laws and technology to education and global cooperation we can create a world that is not only more connected, but also more secure.

• Cybersecurity isn’t just a technical issue it’s a human issue. And we all have a role to play.”

Ryan Catmull, USA

“I have to admit, I’m only a sporadic user of ChatGPT at best, and I have been rather apprehensive about it due to the fact that it writes and creates art for us, things that were previously uniquely human. I personally, don’t feel too threatened by “deepfakes” created with AI, we are still not to the point where we can great perfect-enough AI generated video to fool the most acute viewer, but we are close. Mainly I have been concerned about the older folks in our society. I have been getting scam calls targeting older people to my home phone over the past few years. Before the widespread availability of AI voice systems, it was easy to tell that you were just “talking” to a simple prerecorded message that would pause at various intervals in order to give the illusion of a real human, and eventually you would be transferred to a real human. This was not at all convincing. Recently though, these scammers have adopted an AI agent that is practically indistinguishable to a real human, even I have a hard time. I can only imagine how many older folks are sucked into these scams with the help of this AI technology. Better regulations are a start, but many bad actors will just get around or flat out ignore them. What we need is to educate people on basic fact-checking, and offer free programs to teach people how to recognize ‘deepfakes’”.

Hans Verner Lollike, Denmark

“Cyber space has become a new battlefield against criminals. Firms and public institutions have to invest a lot in security programs. But also as individuals you become a target for criminal cyber activities. Fake e-mails promising you big wins ask you to send in your bank account info. My wife did try to buy on such a page, which had a Danish name and all info sounded real, but she lost her money – the goods never came. When we reported it to the police, we got to know she was not the only one. Never give your bank card info to anyone whom you don’t know you very well”.

Zhou Zheng, China

“Current cyber threats have various motivations. Apart from economic profit, they also involve geopolitical and ideological elements, and even terrorism. If critical data are stolen, a company may lose its competitiveness or even go bankrupt. At national level, threats to data in the energy financial and medical sectors can cause social unrest. Manipulating public opinion through fake news can erode public reasoning. Cross-border cyber threats have become the new instrument of geopolitical games. The state and society should adopt strict cyber security regulations and intensify information campaigns”.

Carsten Fenske, Germany

“The Internet, with all its true and fake information, is the new marketplace or the new hair salon. It’s where global politics is being discussed and where everyone knows best. Nothing has changed in this respect. However, the avalanche of information is infinitely greater. We must be able to cope with it and I hope we will. I’m using AI and I don’t see it as a threat to humanity, at least not yet. It reminds me of then computers were first introduced, something I experienced first hand myself”.

Hugo Longhi, Argentina

“I remember the times when my mother used to tell me careful how I cross the street, or that I should put on a warm coat not to catch a cold or don’t stay in the noon sun during the hot Argentinian summers. Too much unhealthy food or too much drinking were also a threat, not to mention the risks my reckless teenage years would expose me to. In time, the reasons for which I had to be careful changed, for example, not holding my mobile phone while walking for fear of being stolen and you couldn’t live your bike in the street without locking it. From the moment we are born, there seem to be thousands of things that threaten our physical, economic and intellectual integrity. And we’ve always had to take preventive and protection measures and find ways to alleviate the damage caused. In these times, the dark shadow we have to protect ourselves from comes from other areas. Now cyber threats are the hidden enemies, lurking in silence.

Joé Leyder, Luxembourg

“As an individual, you can do something to protect yourself from certain threats using your way of thinking and especially, your doubt. You don’t have to believe everything people say, nor doubt everything they say. However, in order to start thinking on your own, you have to have a certain level of education and understand how some things are connected. The so-called conspiracy theories are based on the assumption that ‘everything’ is controlled by ‘someone’. At this point I’d like to go back to my experience as a teacher. Teachers should encourage pupils to think, not just teach them their subject. This is, in my opinion, the starting point if we want to better protect our society: education. Don’t believe everything they tell you, but do use your brain so as not to end up doubting everything. As an English teacher, I’d like to recommend two books to RRI listeners: Animal Farm and 1984, both written by George Orwell. Power is the central theme in both of them, and propaganda one of its instruments. If people understand this, a small step has already been made towards better protecting our society from current threats”.