University of Nevada, Reno Cybersecurity Center, Viakoo team up for Aces promotion

RENO, Nev.—A solid defense is essential - in baseball and in cyberspace.

The University of Nevada, Reno Cybersecurity Center and Internet of Things (IoT) cybersecurity company Viakoo are supporting cybersecurity awareness during the Reno Aces 2025 season.

Viakoo will donate to the Cybersecurity Center every time the Aces make a defensive play that prevents the opposing team from stealing a base, and light up the stadium with “A Salute to Cyber Defenders” across all signage. As part of this promotion, Viakoo CEO Bud Broomhead will present Cybersecurity Director Shamik Sengupta with a $5,000 check at the Aces’ Aug. 13 home game.

“We are deeply grateful for Viakoo’s support in our mission to meet the modern challenges of cybersecurity,” Sengupta said. “Threats to our data and our infrastructure are always increasing, and it’s crucial to prepare the next generation of cybersecurity experts to meet that challenge.”

“Delivering innovation in cybersecurity is required to combat rising threats in our digitally connected world, and higher education plays a vital frontline role in this,” Broomhead said. “By working with UNR, a recognized leader in cybersecurity education, we are confident in the next generation of cyber defenders being prepared for these challenges.”

Cyber threats from IoT systems pose a severe risk to both digital and physical worlds. Within enterprises there are billions of unsecured devices, from smart cameras to industrial controls in power grids and factories, which create a massive attack surface. Hackers exploit outdated firmware, weak or default passwords, or lack of certificates to create powerful botnets, launch crippling denial-of-service attacks, or even cause dangerous real-world disruption and equipment failure.

Northern Nevada plays a key role in ensuring strong cyber defense.  Whether in the form of legislation promoted by Congressman Mark Amodei, the growth of cybersecurity companies in the Greater Reno area, or the leadership provided by UNR’s Cybersecurity Center, the region plays a critical role in assuring the security of individuals and organizations. 

The Cybersecurity Center works to develop solutions to cybersecurity issues for the benefit of the community. The annual Cybersecurity Conference, open to the public and free of charge, is Nov. 6 on the University of Nevada, Reno campus. For details and to register, visit unr.edu/cybersecurity/conference.