The ease and universal availability of mobile technology combined with the power of the Internet have transformed how people live and work.
Just as technology has brought people closer together, it has also introduced serious risks such as identity theft, fraud and abuse.
No one, no country, no industry, no community is immune to cyber risks, cautions the Department of Homeland Security. As a nation, we face constant cyber threats against our critical infrastructure and economy. As individuals, cybersecurity risks can threaten our finances, identity and privacy. Since our way of life depends on critical infrastructure and the digital technology that operates it, cybersecurity is one of our country’s most important national security priorities, and we each have a role to play — cybersecurity is a shared responsibility, according to the DHS.
National Cyber Security Awareness Month is designed to engage and educate public and private sector partners through events and initiatives with the goal of raising awareness about cybersecurity and increasing the resiliency of the nation in the event of a cyber-incident.
October 2014 marks the 11th Annual National Cyber Security Awareness Month sponsored by the Department of Homeland Security in cooperation with the National Cyber Security Alliance and the Multi-State Information Sharing and Analysis Center.
Each week DHS and its partners will engage public and private partners across the country through a series of events and initiatives across the country.
This year, it’s easy to take part in National Cyber Security Awareness Month by participating in any or all of events. DHS will provide information about specific events and resources for each week, including social media resources to help organizations promote each week’s theme.
To get involved in National Cyber Security Awareness Month 2014, visit http://www.dhs.gov/national-cyber-security-awareness-month-2014.
Year-Round Tips and Resources
• Set strong passwords and don’t share them with anyone.
• Keep your operating system, browser, and other critical software optimized by installing updates.
• Maintain an open dialogue with your family, friends, and community about Internet safety.
• Limit the amount of personal information you post online and use privacy settings to avoid sharing information widely.
• Be cautious about what you receive or read online—if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
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For tips and resources you can use and share throughout the year, visit the DHS Stop.Think.Connect. website.