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14 July 2022 Partner Release

Two cutting-edge research projects led by the Cyber Security Cooperative Research Centre and CSIRO’s Data61 have been recognised as winners at the New South Wales iAwards 2022.

Smart Shield, a machine learning-powered anti-phishing tool, and data privacy tool Personal Information Factor (PIF) were awarded winner and merit winner in the Technology Platform Solution category. Smart Shield will compete against other state winners at the national iAwards in October.

The iAwards is Australia’s longest running innovation recognition program, which promotes excellence in the nation’s digital ecosystem.

CSCRC CEO Rachael Falk said the awards were recognition of years of hard work. “It’s fantastic news and well deserved. These are innovative projects that can have big impacts in the real world, when it comes to bolstering cyber security,” Ms Falk said.

CSCRC Research Director Professor Helge Janicke added, “It demonstrates the quality of our research and innovation work and in particular the relevance to current industry problems. This is an impressive achievement, especially as we are exploring commercialisation pathways and partnerships for both of these technology platforms.”

Smart Shield’s accuracy at detecting attacks and human-centric approach set it apart from competitors said CSIRO project lead Dr Sharif Abuadbba. “Unlike existing anti-phishing systems, Smart Shield grades email severity according to a trafficlight colour system and explains what triggered the warning to the user,” said Dr Abuadbba.

Personal Information Factor (PIF) was used by the NSW Government to analyse datasets tracking the spread of COVID-19, applying appropriate levels of protection before the data was released.

Both tools were funded by the Government of Western Australia, Office of Digital Government and Cyber Security CRC, with research and development conducted by CSIRO’s Data61.

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Dr Liming Zhu, Dr M.A.P. Chamikara, Dr Sharif Abuadbba, The Hon. Victor Michael Dominello MP, Dr Mahathir Almashor, and Mr Greg Wells, NSW Government Chief Information and Digital Officer.