CSUSB Cyber Security Awareness Month (CSAM)
National Cyber Security Awareness Month (NCSAM) takes place every October. It is a collaborative effort between government and industry emphasizing the role each of us plays in online safety. NCSAM seeks to empower every American in taking proactive steps to enhance cybersecurity at home and in the workplace while increasing the resilience of the Nation against cyber threats.
2021 Theme: Do Your Part. #BeCyberSmart
Week 1: Be Cyber Smart
As our lives have become increasingly dependent on technology, virtually all personal and business data is kept on internet-connected platforms which can become a gold mine for bad actors. The first week of Cyber Security Awareness Month will highlight best security practices and focus on general cyber hygiene to keep your information safe.
Own your own role in cyber security by starting with the basics. Creating strong passwords and using multi-factor authentication, backing up your data, and updating your software are great places to start! To learn more, take a look at a fun, informational video from Stay Safe Online, here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0Wd3JoUHXno
Week 2: Fight the Phish
Phishing attacks and scams have thrived since the COVID pandemic began in 2020 and today, phishing attacks account for more than 80 percent of reported security incidents.
Week 2 of National Cyber Security Awareness Month stresses the importance of being wary of emails, text messages or chat boxes that come from a stranger or someone you were not expecting. Think before you click on any suspicious emails, links, or attachments and make sure to report any suspicious emails!
To learn more, take a look at another fun, informational video from Stay Safe Online here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D_yAYhjNE-0
Week 3: Cyber Security First
This week we will focus on making security a priority in your life. This means building security into the everyday products you use and processes you employ. Make sure you keep cybersecurity at the forefront of your mind as you connect daily. Before purchasing a device or online product, do your research. When you set up a new device or app, consider your security and privacy settings and update any default passwords. Cybersecurity should not be an afterthought.
To enter this week’s Cyber Security Champion Raffle, subscribe to the National Cyber Security Alliance Newsletter, here:
https://staysafeonline.org/email-signup/
This free newsletter sends articles on cyber safety as well as helpful tips and tricks to encourage you to keep cyber security awareness a priority! Send a screenshot of your subscription confirmation to Compliance-Awareness@csusb.edu by Friday, 10/22/21. All winners will be announced at the end of National Cyber Security Awareness Month.