Abraham Rivera, CFCE, CFE, CISM, DFCP

Through our greatest technological challenges in the modern era, Abraham Rivera, known to friends and colleagues as Abe, has put his signature on the City of New York and the protection of its citizens. Shepherding forensics, anti-fraud, and incident response through the analog to digital transition was his mission and passion. Excelling in his field, he is an accomplished security practitioner with domain knowledge of information security management, investigations, training, digital forensics, eDiscovery, and incident response across the public and private sectors. Sharing this experience and knowledge as an Adjust Lecturer at John Jay College of Criminal Justice, Abe multiplied the value of his expertise, teaching hundreds of students and mentoring dozens of others during his 14+ years at the college.

This experience included undercover operations, high-profile confidential internal and external investigations into corruption, judicious execution of search warrants, and cybercrime investigations. Abe earned and taught most of the major certifications in digital forensics and parallel cybersecurity disciplines.

Abe grew up in the Bronx, dedicating his life to the city of New York, and developed a love and passion for technology at a very young age. He credits his success to the strong relationship he has with his mother – who always encouraged him to learn more and grow his career.

Starting his career doing Information Technology (IT) work for the NYPD, Abe thrived as a practitioner and loyal public servant. He achieved the position of Executive Director of the New York City Department of Investigation: Information Technology and Investigative Operations Division in 2013. After then spending several years working in the private sector, he returned to serve the public as an Incident Commander for the New York City Cyber Command in 2019.

Abe is known for his expertise in digital forensics, incident response, malware response and his love for teaching and mentoring others. Countless CUNY alumni attribute their success to his mentorship. He is a graduate of John Jay College’s Master of Public Administration in Inspection and Oversight program.

An always growing presence and cherished member of the John Jay community, in recent years he shared that he loves Salsa dancing which he says contributed to his physical fitness, mental well-being, social engagement and cultural enrichment.  It is his fun and rewarding way to encourage his personal expression and self-improvement.  He also played the short congas.  The drum’s rhythmic patterns form the backbone of salsa, driving the movement of dancers and musicians in sync with its beat.  Abe is both and developed his own unique style.  He is also lifelong Yankees baseball fan, having grown up right next to Yankee Stadium.

Abe also enjoys time with his wife Adriana, and their two beautiful dogs, Whiskey and Tango, as well as Baby, his 16 yr old Cockatiel.