Our Community Cybersecurity Clinics (C3) return this fall with another series of free, hands-on learning events designed to help community members strengthen their digital security. Each session focuses on a different aspect of online safety and is open to all ages. Whether you are brand new to cybersecurity or just want a refresher, these clinics offer practical strategies for staying safe online. Brought to you by the Cybersecurity in Application Research, and Education (CARE) Lab and the Digital Access Center at Temple University are hosting the C3 in October 2025 (cybersecurity awareness month). Click here to read about our Fall 2024, Spring 2025 and Fall 2025 C3s.
Spring 2026 C3s
Clinic 1: Romance scams
When: Wednesday, February 11, 3pm-5.30pm
Where: Charles Library, 1900 North 13th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19122
Description: Romance scams don’t start with stealing money—they start with building trust. Scammers create fake profiles, form emotional connections, and slowly pull people into relationships that feel real… until they’re not.
Join us for a free, interactive session focused on how romance scams work and why they’re so effective. We’ll talk about the tactics scammers use on dating apps, social media, and messaging platforms—and how to spot red flags before emotions (or money) get involved.
You’ll learn:
- How romance scams begin and escalate
- Common warning signs in messages and online profiles
- What to do if you or someone you know might be targeted
No tech skills needed. No judgment. Just real examples and practical tips to help you stay safe online.
Clinic 2: Tax scams
When: Saturday, March 14, 3pm-5.30pm
Where: Mazur Hall, Room 24, 1114 Polett Walk (between 11th and 12th streets), Philadelphia, PA 19122
Description: “Pay now or else.” That’s how many tax scams work. Scammers pretend to be the IRS or tax agencies and use fear, urgency, and fake authority to pressure people into paying money they don’t owe.
This free session breaks down how tax scams show up through phone calls, texts, emails, and letters—and how to tell the difference between real tax communication and a scam.
You’ll learn:
- How tax scammers operate and what messages they use
- Red flags that signal a fake IRS or tax notice
- What steps to take if you receive a suspicious tax message
No prior knowledge required—just come curious and leave feeling more confident and scam-savvy.