There is no better time than now to ensure you are safe when you are online, and October’s Cybersecurity Awareness Month offers a wealth of tips and resources to get you started. 

Cybersecurity Awareness Month raises awareness about the importance of cybersecurity across our nation, ensuring that all Americans have the resources they need to be safer and more secure online. The Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) and the National Cyber Security Alliance (NCSA) will employ the overarching theme “Do Your Part. #BeCyberSmart” throughout the month of October. 

Cybersecurity starts with YOU and is everyone’s responsibility. There are currently an estimated 5.2 billion Internet users—over 65% of the world's population! This number will only grow, making the need to #BeCyberSmart more important than ever.

For more information on how to raise cybersecurity awareness and for resources to “Do Your Part,” go to www.cisa.gov/cybersecurity-awareness-month. 

10 Simple Cybersecurity Tips

• Change the default password and username for Wi-Fi and digital devices 

• Enable multi-factor authentication

• Update to the latest security software, web browser, and operating systems

• Check app permissions and delete what you don’t need or no longer use 

• Only download apps from trusted vendors and sources

• Limit what information you post on social media—from personal addresses to where you like to grab coffee

• Only allow file sharing over home or work networks, never on public networks

• Check your internet provider’s or router manufacturer’s wireless security options

• Connect using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to encrypt connections 

• Only allow authorized users to access your network