The University of Alabama at Birmingham’s Department of Computer Science is launching an innovative new program titled, “Bridge to Cyber,” an opportunity to get a head start in cyber security education without prior background.

A cybersecurity expert says to avoid saving credit card information into browsers, check the legitimacy of shopping websites, pay attention to the senders of emails and always confirm an online request for money.

Mercer, 21, of Spanish Fort, Alabama, also won the Miss Congeniality and Talent awards, winning $2,600 in scholarships.