CFAs: Digital Security Training Specialist for Newsrooms in Moldova

The project is implemented by DW Akademie in cooperation with the Association of Independent Press (API) and is funded by the European Union and co-funded by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ).

The project adopts a multilayered approach, which includes a 3D Media Safety Program for journalists and media institutions in the areas of physical, digital, and psychological security.

The rampant flow of disinformation poses a key challenge to Moldova. It manipulates public opinion, erodes trust and undermines fragile democratic progress. In the face of multiple crises stemming from the Russian invasion in Ukraine, the need for trustworthy information has become even more pronounced, especially in communities directly affected by these events.

To contribute to a resilient democratic society in the Republic of Moldova with a safe information ecosystem, the project is aimed at increasing the capacities of media actors to produce, and of media consumers to access trustworthy quality reporting.

The digital security component will be implemented across 8 local and national newsrooms. A team of two digital security experts will evaluate the security needs of the newsrooms and provide recommendations to mitigate the identified vulnerabilities.

The representatives from these newsrooms will be trained in-house covering the following topics:

• Strategies to prevent information loss.
• Website and database protection.
• Handling cyber-attacks and online threats.
• Managing the spread of misinformation and slander on social media.
• Enhancing the privacy of accounts on computers and mobile devices.
• Best practices for data backup.
• Utilizing authentication and encryption technologies.
• Preventing identity theft through phishing attacks and other fraudulent activities.

Scope of Work

• DW Akademie is looking for a trainer/consultant to fulfill following duties and responsibilities:
  • Plan in-house trainings for 8 newsrooms incl. identifying digital vulnerabilities of the newsrooms.
  • Deliver in-house trainings for 8 newsrooms in cooperation with a co-trainer; each consultation will last up to 2 days.
  • Develop and present recommendations on the necessary resources to enhance the digital safety of the newsrooms and their journalists.
  • Assist with the installation and configuration of software and tools in the newsrooms.
  • Remote consultations during pre- and post-phase are possible.

Deliverables

• Training program tailored to the newsrooms.
• Needs assessment of newsrooms.
• Narrative report assessing status of digital security of newsrooms (incl. recommendations for software to be purchased).
• All deliverables can be submitted in English.

Eligibility Criteria

• Profound knowledge of digital security.
• Proven experience in delivering training and workshops on digital security.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, capable of explaining complex technical concepts to non-technical audiences.
• Ability to analyze security threats and vulnerabilities and communicate risk mitigation strategies.
• Capable of tailoring training content to the specific needs and security context of different audiences.
• Commitment to maintaining confidentiality and integrity in handling sensitive information.
• Adherence to ethical standards in training and security practices.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively in a team setting; this includes planning, coordinating and delivering training sessions in tandem with another trainer.

For more information, visit DW Akademie.