SEMO student’s hackathon project becomes AI-powered cybersecurity tool

FOX23 News at 9 p.m

CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. (KBSI) — A Southeast Missouri State University graduate student has turned a first-place hackathon project into an artificial intelligence-powered cybersecurity tool designed to help users identify online scams and phishing attempts.

Bhavya Narula, who is pursuing a master’s degree in applied computer science, developed TrustFall, a platform that analyzes suspicious text messages, emails, links and screenshots to help users recognize potential online threats before sharing personal information or clicking malicious links.

The project was created during the Harrison College of Business and Computing’s “AI for a Smarter Tomorrow” Hackathon, held April 30 through May 1. Narula’s idea won first place and has since evolved into a functioning platform.

“Scams and phishing attempts have become a part of everyday life for students, families, employees and businesses,” Narula said. “I wanted to create a tool that helps people make safer decisions online by identifying potential threats and explaining why something might be suspicious in language anyone can understand.”

The platform uses artificial intelligence and cybersecurity analysis to evaluate potential risks and provide users with explanations of why content may be suspicious.

Narula said support from faculty and university leaders helped him continue developing the project after the competition. Associate Professor Reshmi Mitra and Assistant Vice President for Economic and Workforce Development Dan Presson have worked with Narula to refine the platform and explore opportunities to expand its use.

University officials say the project highlights the value of hands-on learning and entrepreneurship opportunities available to SEMO students.

TrustFall is available online and is expected to continue expanding as development progresses.