Before diving into post-quantum cryptography, this optional workshop helps participants differentiate between two often-confused fields: cryptography and cybersecurity. You’ll explore their respective goals, overlaps, and how they work together to protect digital systems.

This session sets the stage for the main course by establishing a foundational understanding of how modern cryptographic systems operate and where they fit within broader security infrastructures.

• Cybersecurity vs Cryptography: definitions, goals, and boundaries
• Real-world examples of cryptographic applications (e.g., HTTPS, messaging, digital identity)
• The role of cryptography within digital security systems
• Discussion: threats, attack surfaces, and emerging challenges

By the end of this workshop, participants will be able to:

• Distinguish between cryptography and cybersecurity in terms of purpose and scope
• Identify common cryptographic tools (e.g., encryption, digital signatures) and their roles in protecting data
• Describe how cryptography fits within broader cybersecurity systems (e.g., HTTPS, messaging apps)
• Recognize real-world scenarios where both fields are applied and understand what happens when either fails

This workshop uses a mix of short lectures, real-world examples, and guided discussions to help participants clearly distinguish cryptography from cybersecurity.

Through visual comparisons, live walkthroughs (like HTTPS), and a simple case study, learners build practical understanding without needing technical depth. The session is structured, interactive, and grounded in everyday digital experiences.