October is National Cyber Security Awareness Month

[David H. Lipman]

October is National Cyber Security Awareness Month

https://www.dhs.gov/medialibrary/assets/videos/21706

Cybersecurity Awareness Month

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About 

Since 2004, the President of the United States and Congress have declared the month of October to be Cybersecurity Awareness Month, a dedicated month for the public and private sectors to work together to raise awareness about the importance of cybersecurity. 

Over the years it has grown into a collaborative effort between government and industry to enhance cybersecurity awareness, encourage actions by the public to reduce online risk and generate discussion on cyber threats on a national and global scale. October 2024 marks the 21st Cybersecurity Awareness Month. 

Secure Our World

Starting in 2023 with the launch of CISA’s cybersecurity awareness program, Secure Our World will also be the enduring theme for all future Cybersecurity Awareness Months. This theme recognizes the importance of taking daily action to reduce risks when online and connected to devices. Organizations can use the Secure Our World theme when planning for the 2024 and future Cybersecurity Awareness Month campaigns.  

Below are the simple actions we should all take not only during October, but every day throughout the year to stay safe online. 

Four Easy Ways to Stay Safe Online

Let’s work together to build a safer digital world. We can increase our online safety through four simple actions, and whether at home, work or school, these tips make us more secure when connected. Take time to discuss them with family, friends, employees and your community so we can all become safer online!

Recognize & Report Phishing 

Be cautious of unsolicited messages asking for personal information. Avoid sharing sensitive information or credentials with unknown sources. Report phishing attempts and delete the message.

 

Use Strong Passwords

Strong passwords are long, random, unique and include all four character types (uppercase, lowercase, numbers and symbols). Password managers are a powerful tool to help you create strong passwords for each of your accounts. 

 

Turn On MFA

You need more than a password to protect your online accounts and enabling MFA makes you significantly less likely to get hacked. Enable MFA on all your online accounts that offer it, especially email, social media and financial accounts.

 

Update Software

Ensuring your software is up to date is the best way to make sure you have the latest security patches and updates on your devices. Regularly check for updates if automatic updates are not available.

 

Edited September 26 by David H. Lipman
Edited for content, clarity, spelling and/or grammar