NYC's Unique Campaign Uses Fortune Cookies to Combat Cyber Threats

NYC’s Unique Campaign Uses Fortune Cookies to Combat Cyber Threats

In an innovative twist on traditional advertising, OpenFortune, a prominent media firm, is rolling out a fresh initiative in New York City designed to raise awareness of cybersecurity threats through the beloved fortune cookie. This campaign will last throughout the month of August, promoting the Take9 initiative created by Craig Newmark Philanthropies, in collaboration with leading cybersecurity organizations across the nation.

OpenFortune plans to distribute over 100,000 specially branded fortune cookies that carry engaging messages intended to highlight the importance of digital safety. With quirky and poignant phrases like "Use passwords as complicated as your relationships," and "Trust your instincts, not public Wi-Fi," these cookies aim to ignite crucial discussions during meals. Considering that more than 60% of diners regularly talk about fortune cookie messages, this campaign presents a unique opportunity to engage the community and promote vital conversations on cyber threats.

The initiative extends beyond simple table talk. The slips inside these fortune cookies are crafted to be conversation starters that recipients can hold onto, acting as tangible reminders to remain vigilant in the digital realm. By encouraging at least 20,000 New Yorkers to save their fortune slips—whether tucked behind smartphones or magnetically attached to their fridges—it transforms a brief moment of enjoyment into ongoing education related to cybersecurity practices. The intention is to nurture smarter digital habits among the populace, based on the premise that a few seconds of consideration can prevent potential harm.

Shawn Porat, Co-founder and CEO of OpenFortune, emphasized the necessity of embedding cybersecurity awareness into daily life, stating, "Cybersecurity is no longer optional; it's essential. Our goal is to make digital mindfulness second nature for New Yorkers." With the escalating threat of cyberattacks, this initiative aims to remind citizens that caring for their digital safety is as important as their physical well-being. The more regular people engage with their digital habits, the more likely those habits become instinctual.

The backdrop of this campaign is alarming: cyber threats are increasingly sophisticated and pervasive. Despite technological safeguards from giants such as Apple, Google, and Microsoft—who advocate for using multifactor authentication (MFA), password managers, and other protective measures—individual awareness and education remain critically important. As Craig Newmark stated, "We’re trying to get everyone to think seriously about how to shield themselves from scams and reduce the nation's vulnerability to cyberattacks. This grassroots campaign endeavors to facilitate meaningful conversations around preventing digital scams and cybersecurity preparedness."

OpenFortune’s extraordinary distribution network reaches over 135 million consumers each month through partnerships with more than 47,000 restaurants and delivery services. This structure merges the long-standing tradition of fortune cookies with cutting-edge marketing techniques, ensuring a memorable and impactful connection with audiences across the city.

Once connected with the campaign, residents are encouraged to reflect on their digital lives regularly by taking just nine seconds to pause and consider their next online actions—whether it involves clicking a link, downloading an app, or sharing information. In promoting these micro-moments of reflection, OpenFortune’s initiative not only elevates public awareness but also fosters a culture of proactive digital safety.

This fusion of creativity and practicality encapsulates a modern approach to media and messaging, proving that traditional avenues, like fortune cookies, can be revitalized to serve contemporary needs. As the campaign progresses, OpenFortune invites the public to join in the conversation about digital awareness while enjoying their tasty treats. To discover more about OpenFortune and the Take9 initiative, visit OpenFortune.com and pausetake9.org.