Background

Lynne M. Smelser, Ph.D. is a cybersecurity advisor, author, and educator whose work bridges the worlds of technology, communication, and security. Holding a doctorate in rhetoric and technology from Michigan State University, she combines scholarly expertise with real-world experience to help organizations navigate the complex intersection of human behavior and digital threats. Her career includes work with cybersecurity companies such as Galactic Advisors, where she has guided businesses in safeguarding systems, restoring operations after breaches, and building proactive defenses against emerging threats.

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Dr. Smelser is the author of "Beneath the Algorithm: The Hidden Dangers of AI Deceit", a concise yet incisive examination of artificial intelligence’s capacity to mislead. Drawing from current events, research, and her own security work, the book explores how AI systems can simulate emotion, fabricate relationships, and subtly distort truth, posing risks to individuals, businesses, and democratic systems. Her writing blends accessibility with urgency, making complex technical and ethical issues clear to a wide audience.

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Beyond her advisory and writing work, Dr. Smelser is an experienced educator and communicator. She has led workshops, developed curriculum, and consulted with leaders on the societal and organizational impacts of AI and cyber threats. Whether teaching, advising, or writing, she focuses on empowering people with the knowledge and tools they need to identify vulnerabilities, respond effectively to incidents, and understand the deeper implications of living and working in a rapidly evolving digital world.