Digital Corporate Communication and Cyber Risks: A Case Study, University of Oran 1, Ahmed Ben Bella

Abstract

Algeria has currently witnessed profound digital transformations that have imposed themselves on various sectors, such as the higher education and scientific research sector, which is considered a vital sector. The higher education sector in Algeria is witnessing a radical shift towards digitization, as information and communication technology has become a fundamental pillar in the management of university institutions. In this context, the University of Oran 1 "Ahmed Ben Bella" stands out as a pioneering model in adopting digital institutional communication tools This had a positive impact on its academic ranking, as it ranked second nationally according to the Simago International Ranking for the year 2025 (APS, 2025).

With this rapid development, cyber challenges that threaten the stability of information systems and the integrity of academic data are increasing,

 This study aims to shed light on the reality of digital institutional communication at the University of Oran 1 Ahmed Ben Bella as an applied model that helps understand the dynamics of communication within Algerian university institutions and the extent to which they keep pace with modern technological developments in light of the requirements of "cyber security". The study also mainly aims to diagnose the digital communication tools used at the university from the website, social media platforms, digital portals...etc., and evaluate its effectiveness in achieving interaction with internal and external audiences, students, professors, civil society, and seek to link this reality to the challenges of cyber security and its impact on the integrity of information and the confidentiality of the digital institution. The study relied on the descriptive analytical approach through a case study approach, where the digital content of the University of Oran 1 Ahmed Ben Bella was analyzed and the quality of services provided electronically on the official website as well as the official Facebook page was evaluated.

The study reached a set of results, the most important of which are: Oran 1 Ahmed Ben Bella University has made significant progress in its digital presence, but it still faces challenges related to "content strategy" and "integration between platforms", in addition to the urgent need to strengthen the digital protection system to maintain the confidentiality of student data and the institution's reputation from cyber threats.

The study concluded by presenting a set of practical recommendations, most notably the necessity of adopting a strategic plan for digital communication based on interactivity and transparency, while activating strict security protocols that ensure the continuity of the digital service and protect it from breaches and media misinformation.