October is National Cyber Security Awareness Month

Plan Ahead!

October is National Cyber Security Awareness Month (NCSAM), a collaborative effort between DHS, the National Cyber Security Alliance, and other public and private partners to raise awareness about the importance of cybersecurity and individual cyber hygiene.

Each week of NCSAM is dedicated to a specific cybersecurity theme, with related activities and events happening across the country:

  • October 2-6, 2017: Simple Steps to Online Safety. Week 1 will address the top consumer cybersecurity concerns, provide simple steps to protect against these concerns, and help the public understand what to do if they fall victim to cybercrime.
  • October 9-13, 2017: Cybersecurity in the Workplace is Everyone’s Business. Week 2 will showcase how organizations can protect against the most common cyber threats. The week will also look at resources to help organizations strengthen their cyber resilience, including the Cybersecurity Framework.
  • October 16-20, 2017: Today’s Predictions for Tomorrow’s Internet. Week 3 will remind citizens that their sensitive, personal information is the fuel that makes smart devices work. While there are tremendous benefits of this technology, it is critical to understand how to use these cutting-edge innovations in safe and secure ways.
  • October 23-27: The Internet Wants YOU:  Consider a Career is Cybersecurity.  Week 4 will encourage students and other job seekers to explore cybersecurity careers.  Key influencers – like parents, teachers, and state and local officials – will learn more about this growing field and how to engage youth in pursuing cybersecurity careers.
  • October 30-31:  Protecting Critical Infrastructure from Cyber Threats.  Week 5 will look at cybersecurity in relation to keeping our traffic lights, running water, phone lines, and other critical infrastructure secure.