SEMO Student Turns First-Place Hackathon Idea into Real-World Cybersecurity Tool

Bhavya Narula, a graduate student pursuing a Master of Science in applied computer science at SEMO, developed TrustFall, an AI-powered cybersecurity platform designed to help individuals better understand and detect online threats through simple, user-friendly analysis.

"Scams and phishing attempts have become a part of everyday life for students, families, employees and businesses," said Narula. "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."

TrustFall allows users to paste suspicious text messages, upload screenshots, analyze links and scan emails through a browser extension. Using artificial intelligence and cybersecurity analysis techniques, the platform evaluates potential risks and provides users with clear explanations before they click a link, respond to a message or share personal information.

TrustFall was created during HCBC's Hackathon, "AI for a Smarter Tomorrow," held April 30-May 1. In weeks, the first-place project has evolved from a competition concept into a working platform with plans for future expansion.

"That theme challenged me to think about how AI could address a real-world problem that affects people every day," said Narula. "The Hackathon gave me an opportunity to build something meaningful around a real problem. I do not think TrustFall would exist without that experience."

I'M INTERESTED IN BUILDING MY OWN COMPANY

As the project gained momentum, Narula found support from faculty mentors who encouraged him to continue refining and expanding the platform. Dr. Reshmi Mitra, associate professor of computer science, has played an important role in helping him think about the future of TrustFall and its potential applications.

"I was truly excited to see TrustFall as the winning project during our recent HCBC Hackathon," said Mitra. "The project demonstrated a strong combination of relevant cybersecurity and AI focus, thoughtful execution and convincing test results. This success shows how important it is for students to have opportunities to apply classroom learning to real-world problems."

Mitra said the next step is helping Narula transform the project into a practical product that can be tested, refined and scaled for broader use. Narula credits SEMO faculty and staff for helping make that possible.

The project also attracted support from University leadership. Dan Presson, assistant vice president for Economic and Workforce Development, is working with Narula to explore opportunities to expand TrustFall's reach and impact.

Presson helped connect Narula with resources across campus while identifying opportunities to grow the platform beyond its Hackathon origins. He envisions future possibilities that could create new opportunities for entrepreneurial collaboration.

"Regardless of what your ideas are or what industry you're in, the University will work to support you as best as possible," said Presson. "Whether that's creating focus groups, connecting students with resources or helping them test and refine their ideas, we're committed to helping students get where they want to go and reach their ultimate goals."

Presson said Narula's work demonstrates both the talent of SEMO students and the value of SEMO's hands-on mentality.

"Bhavya is the ultimate example of student talent," he said. "It's amazing what our students can put together, especially in such a short amount of time. The level of quality is exceptional."

As an early adopter of the platform, Presson has incorporated TrustFall into his own daily work, using the tool to evaluate emails, messages and online content.

For Narula, that collaborative approach is one of the most important lessons he has learned throughout the process.

"I cannot do this all alone," he said. "You need people around you to help and support you. We have incredible staff and faculty who promote student success."

Through faculty mentorship, experiential learning opportunities and cross-campus collaboration, students are empowered to apply classroom knowledge to real-world challenges and create meaningful impact.

Do you want to solve real-world problems? Visit semo.edu/computer-science today. For more information about TrustFall, visit thetrustfall.com.

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