2024 Cybersecurity Awareness Campaign
October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month, an international initiative that educates everyone about online safety and empowers individuals and businesses to protect their data from cybercrime.
Even amidst large-scale data breaches and cyberattacks, Cybersecurity Awareness Month reminds everyone that there are simple, effective ways to keep yourself safe online, protect your data, and ultimately help secure our world!
The theme of Cybersecurity Awareness Month is "Secure Our World!" This initiative reminds us that there are simple actions we can take every day to protect ourselves, our families, and businesses from online threats.
Cybersecurity Awareness Month focuses on the top four ways to stay safe online:
Use strong passwords and a password manager
Turn on multifactor authentication
Recognize and report phishing
Update software
Cybersecurity Awareness Month continues to build momentum and impact with the goal of providing everyone with the information they need to stay safe and more secure online.
ETS is proud to support this critically important online safety awareness and education initiative, led by the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency and the National Cybersecurity Alliance.
For more information about Cybersecurity Awareness Month 2024 and how to participate in a wide variety of activities, visit cisa.gov/cybersecurity-awareness-month and staysafeonline.org/programs/cybersecurity-awareness-month/.
You can also follow and use the hashtag #CybersecurityAwarenessMonth and #SecureOurWorld on social media throughout the month.
Q&A with the ETS Security Team | State Capitol Auditorium, October 30th, 2-4 pm
Got questions about cybersecurity that keep you up at night? (Or maybe just make you roll your eyes?)
Join the ETS Security team for our first-ever Cybersecurity Q&A on October 30th from 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM at the State Capitol Auditorium.
We'll tackle your burning questions (like "What is a phishing scam anyway?"), bust some myths (no, you don't need to be a tech whiz to be cyber-safe), and even share a few funny cybersecurity jokes (because laughter is the best defense...after a strong password, of course).
Whether you're a tech whiz or just trying to keep your inbox safe from Nigerian princes, this event is for you. We'll have experts on hand to offer practical tips and answer all your questions, from the simple to the downright perplexing.
Here's what you can expect:
Expert insights: Get advice straight from the ETS Security team.
Myth-busting: Learn the truth about common cybersecurity misconceptions.
Practical tips: Discover simple ways to protect yourself and the state.
Q&A session: Get answers to your most pressing cybersecurity questions.
Don't miss out on this chance to get the inside scoop on cybersecurity - and even win a prize or two!
Space is limited, so sign up today to secure your spot!
CISO Coin Giveaway Challenge!
When you take the KnowBe4 training during October, you'll be entered into a drawing to win one of five limited-edition CISO coins!
Quadruple your chances and take all four trainings! These coins are a unique symbol of your commitment to cybersecurity and a great conversation starter. Contest ends October 31st, 2024.
Also, keep a close eye on your inbox throughout the month for a mystery challenge that will offer three lucky winners the chance to win one of three additional coins!
CISO Coin - Front
CISO Coin - Back
The Power of Strong Passwords and Password Manager
In the digital age, where our lives are increasingly intertwined with online platforms and services, the importance of robust cybersecurity practices cannot be overstated. As we observe Cybersecurity Awareness Month this October, let's delve into the critical role of strong passwords and password managers in safeguarding our digital identities and sensitive information.
The Perils of Weak Passwords
Weak or easily guessable passwords are a cybercriminal's dream. They provide a gateway to our personal and professional accounts, potentially leading to identity theft, financial loss, and data breaches. Birthdays, pet names, and simple numerical sequences are prime examples of passwords that should be avoided at all costs.
The Anatomy of a Strong Password
A strong password is like a fortress wall, protecting your digital assets from unauthorized access. To construct such a formidable defense, consider these key elements:
Length: The longer the password, the harder it is to crack. Aim for a minimum of 16 characters, but longer is always better.
Randomness: Use a random string of letters (capitals and lowercase), numbers, and symbols (the strongest!)
Uniqueness: Each account should have its unique password. Reusing passwords across multiple platforms creates a domino effect, where a breach in one account compromises all others.
The Password Manager Advantage
Remembering a multitude of complex passwords can be a daunting task. This is where password managers come to the rescue. These encrypted digital vaults securely store your passwords, allowing you to access them with a single master password. Password managers also generate strong, unique passwords for each account, eliminating the need to rely on your memory or resort to weak, easily guessable combinations.
Key benefits of using a password manager:
Enhanced security: Eliminates the risk of reusing passwords and simplifies the creation of strong, unique passwords.
Convenience: Stores all your passwords in one secure location, accessible with a single master password.
Efficiency: Autofills login credentials, saving you time and effort.
Portability: Access your passwords across multiple devices.
Cybersecurity is an ongoing process, and strong passwords and password managers are fundamental tools in this endeavor. By taking proactive steps to safeguard our digital lives, we can navigate the online world with confidence and peace of mind. Remember, a strong password is not just a string of characters but a shield protecting your valuable information.