A cybersecurity professional with more than 15 years of experience will teach Livingston residents how to spot AI-powered scams at a free lecture on Tuesday, Oct. 6.

Nirupama Mallavarupu, who spent five years at IBM working in cybersecurity, will present "Staying Safe in the Age of AI Scams" at the Livingston Public Library from 7 to 8:15 p.m. The session covers how to recognize AI-driven fraud, phishing attacks and other cyber tricks targeting bank, credit card and personal accounts.

No security background is needed.

The library's event listing describes the talk as geared toward people who want practical techniques to protect themselves online. The library warns that artificial intelligence has made scams more convincing and personalized, spreading faster than ever before. Attendees will learn how to identify the latest fraud tactics and build habits to safeguard their financial and personal accounts.

Mallavarupu founded MobileArq, a technology platform serving public schools across the country, and created ScamKat, an app that monitors phone and email accounts for threats. She also held technical roles at Sun Microsystems and Oracle earlier in her career, according to a New Providence Memorial Library listing for a version of the same talk scheduled there on Monday, Nov. 23. The multi-library schedule suggests growing demand across the region for guidance on AI-related fraud.

At IBM, Mallavarupu helped design platforms that protect sensitive information and strengthen online security practices. Her work focused on identifying risks, improving data protection and helping organizations defend against cyber threats.

The Friends of the Livingston Public Library sponsors many of the library's programs. The lecture takes place in the Program Room at 10 Robert Harp Dr. in Livingston. The library's event page does not list a registration requirement, but residents can call (973) 992-4600 to confirm. Regular library hours are Monday through Thursday, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; and Sunday, 1 to 5 p.m.

Upcoming at the Livingston Public Library:

  • Tuesday, Oct. 6 — "Staying Safe in the Age of AI Scams," 7–8:15 p.m., Program Room