National Cyber Security Awareness Month

October is National Cyber Security Awareness Month and it is an opportunity to engage public and private sector stakeholders – especially the general public – to create a safe, secure, and resilient cyber environment. Everyone has to play a role in cybersecurity. Constantly evolving cyber threats require the engagement of the entire nation — from government and law enforcement to the private sector and most importantly, the public.

Cyberspace is woven into the fabric of our daily lives and the world is more interconnected today than ever before. We enjoy the benefits and convenience that cyberspace provides as we shop from home online, bank using our smart phones, and interact with friends from around the world through social networks. The Department of Homeland Security is committed to raising cybersecurity awareness across the nation and to working across all levels of government, the private sector, and internationally to protect against and respond to cyber incidents.

This year marks the tenth anniversary of 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.

Through a series of events and initiatives across the country, National Cyber Security Awareness Month engages public and private sector partners to raise awareness and educate Americans about cybersecurity, and increase the resiliency of the Nation and its cyber infrastructure.

This 10th anniversary, National Cyber Security Awareness Month looks ahead at the cybersecurity challenges for the next ten years, dedicating each week to a different cybersecurity issue:

Stop Think Connect logo Week One (October 1-4):
Launch of 10th Annual National Cybersecurity Awareness Month. Cybersecurity is Our Shared Responsibility
The next ten years in cybersecurity are critical to ensure a safe, secure, resilient cyberspace where the American way of life can thrive. Given the stakes we must remain focused on meeting the challenges of the next ten years.
keyboard keys Week Two (October 7-11):
Being Mobile: Online Safety and Security
Emphasizes the importance of cybersecurity no matter where you are or what device you are using.
Group of people Week Three (October 15-18):
Cyber Workforce and the Next Generation of Cyber Leaders
Highlights the importance of fostering the next generation cyber workforce through education and training.
keyboard keys Week Four (October 21-25):
Cyber Crime
Focuses on national and local efforts to prevent traditional crimes like theft, fraud, and abuse that can also take place online.
Man with a headset Week Five (October 28-31):
Critical Infrastructure and Cybersecurity
Highlights the growing intersection between cyber and physical security when protecting the Nation’s critical infrastructure.

Do Your Part

While each week of National Cyber Security Awareness Month highlights a different element of cybersecurity, the overarching theme is the same. Together, we can maintain a cyberspace that is safer and more resilient, and that remains a source of tremendous opportunity and growth for years to come.

To get involved:

  • Find or register a local event on the official calendar.
  • Get information on how your government, law enforcement, business, school, or organization can take action during NCSAM.
  • Teach elementary, middle, and high school students about Internet safety and security.
  • Follow @cyber, @DHSgov, and post cybersecurity tips, news, and resources highlighting NCSAM on social media sites.

Original post at DHS Site

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