#USA #Sacramento #Cyber Safety #Lanterman and Friends #California Regional Centers

Cyber Safety: A New Animated Series for Online Protection

The California Regional Centers are excited to unveil a new animated series titled ‘Cyber Safety,’ slated for launch on May 12, 2026. This series, which is a continuation of the popular Lanterman and Friends initiative, aims to provide practical guidance on recognizing online scams and implementing measures to enhance personal safety in the digital space.

The primary target audience for ‘Cyber Safety’ includes individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD), their families, and support staff. The initiative is particularly timely, considering that studies indicate individuals with cognitive disabilities are approximately 48% more likely to become victims of identity theft compared to their peers without disabilities.

To bring the series to life, the character of Eva Eldorado, a cyber detective, will be voiced by prominent actress Carolina Ravassa. Best known for her roles in popular video games like Overwatch and VALORANT, Ravassa expressed her enthusiasm for the project, highlighting her connection to the I/DD community and the importance of empowering individuals with knowledge about potential online threats.

The series will debut on LantermanandFriends.org and the YouTube channel, LANTERMANANDFRIENDS. It will build on the success of previous content, including a recent emergency preparedness series featuring Mark Hamill, known for his roles in film and television. Cyber Safety will focus on education rather than fear, promoting practical actions that viewers can take to protect themselves online.

Mark Wolfe, a father of a child who receives support from the Regional Centers, emphasized the value of teaching viewers to recognize warning signs associated with online fraud. He explains, “Cyber threats often exploit confusion and urgency. By equipping individuals with I/DD and their allies with the tools to recognize these patterns, we can better protect them before scams can cause harm.”

To ensure that the educational content resonates, the animated series uses engaging storytelling techniques, making vital information about cybersecurity comprehensible. Every episode is crafted to reinforce understanding and retention, enabling viewers to not only acknowledge the existence of online fraud but also effectively identify warning signs and seek assistance when needed.

The production of ‘Cyber Safety’ involved the expertise and technical guidance of GET SAFE, an organization dedicated to improving safety for individuals with disabilities. The hands-on approach ensured that the series addressed real concerns in an accessible manner, breaking down complex concepts into easily digestible segments.

Wilkins, manager of Emergency Management at the Tri-Counties Regional Center, remarked, “The strength of this series lies in its ability to distill critical moments of potentially dangerous situations into understandable warning signs and actionable responses. This prepares audiences for what to do should they encounter suspicious activities.”

‘Cyber Safety’ is set to be available for free viewing in both English and Spanish, with future plans to offer content in 17 additional languages and to include American Sign Language (ASL). This multilingual approach broadens the reach of the initiative, aiming to make cybersecurity education accessible to a wider audience.

About Lanterman and Friends

Lanterman and Friends has garnered over half a million views and has been recognized with five Webby Awards for its efforts in making critical information about California's Regional Center services more understandable for people with I/DD and their families.

About California Regional Centers

California's 21 nonprofit Regional Centers play a crucial role in coordinating and delivering services to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families. These centers work in partnership with the California Department of Developmental Services, facilitating greater access to independence and inclusion for participants.

About Public Pixels Media

Public Pixels Media is a California-based animation and production company focused on creating story-driven content for public agencies and mission-driven organizations. Leveraging industry expertise, they provide engaging media solutions that make important information accessible to diverse audiences.