Happy Cybersecurity Awareness Month! Since 2004 industry, government organizations, and academia have joined forces to raise awareness of the importance of good cyber security. I had the great fortune to spend over three years working in Information Security Awareness and Cybersecurity Awareness and something I’ve become very passionate about.
Most of us spend a lot of time online. We work, we buy things, we share our lives. Those things put Personally Identifiable Information (PII) out into the world. And that information can be used by thieves, hackers, and other “bad actors” to make your life hell. It’s not something that happens to someone else. It’s not a conspiracy. If you are online, someone has your PII and it’s probably only a matter of time until someone uses it.
The good news is that there are things you can do to protect yourself. Keeping an eye on your credit score and bank accounts and setting up alerts through credit bureaus can let you know if someone is trying to use your financial information. But why wait for someone to strike?
We’ve heard it all before, but it needs repeating. Use strong passwords. Don’t click on sketching links. Don’t reply to random messages you aren’t expecting. You can take it a step further and hover over links and make sure that they go to the website they’re claiming to go. Be smart and stay safe online.
It’s not limited to your computer though. Text and voice messages are becoming popular to trick unsuspecting people out of their money. Random texts claiming to be someone you know and asking for money is a growing con. If someone reaches out to you claiming to be your 2nd cousin once removed and needs $500, stop and do your research. Do not respond. Call someone else in the family. Find out if there’s an issue before sending money. Remember, if it seems sketchy it probably is.
Don’t forget to spread the word to your family and friends. Especially more senior members of your family who may not be super tech-savvy. Make sure they know not to believe every thing that comes across their computer, tablet or phone.
But, where can you go to learn more and get information? I’m glad you asked! The National Cybersecurity Alliance is a great place to go to learn about Cybersecurity Awareness Month and information security. The Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) is another excellent source of information. The National Institute of Information and Technology (NIST) always has great information on cybersecurity and cyber threats.
Cybersecurity doesn’t need to be difficult or complicated. Taking small steps every day will keep you safe online. Stay aware, be careful, and Secure Our World.
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