October is Cyber Security month and for the public that should bring a fresh awareness to the emerging cyber threats. Cybersecurity for those that are not aware is the protection of computers and computer systems against unauthorized attacks or intrusion (DHS, 2015). You want to be up to speed on technology, from smart phones that can literally save your life to social media websites and keeping up with loved ones. This technology provides a level of convenience to our lives, but we also inadvertently share more information with the world than ever before. The security of this information, and the security of these devices, is not always guaranteed, which is why we need your help. Believe it or not, you have an important role in helping us protect cyberspace because it is an essential part of our daily lives. Understanding Cybersecurity is the first step to protecting yourself, your family and your organization. Fortunately, general awareness and some relatively simple security precautions can protect you against the majority of the security threats that you will face today. “There are many risks online, some more serious than others. The majority of cybercriminals are indiscriminate; they target vulnerable computer systems regardless of whether they are part of a government agency, Fortune 500 Company, a small business or belong to a home user” (DHS, 2015). This role can be taught or improved upon in our Cybersecurity 101 course. To make you more comfortable with using the Internet from social media to online banking, we are here to help. Cybersecurity 101 focuses on protecting computers, mobile devices, tablets, networks, programs and data from unauthorized access or manipulation. We will teach you the latest threats, show you how to protect your devices with firewall and anti-virus, how to update your devices, choose safe passwords, and more.

Here are some quick tips from us to increase the security of your Internet-enabled devices:
1. Keep a clean device. Like your smartphone or PC, keep any device that connects to the Internet free from viruses and malware.
2. Update the software regularly on the device itself as well as the apps you use to control the device.
3. Secure your network. Properly secure the wireless network you use to connect Internet enabled devices.

Blogger: Taryn Kuczynski
Cyber Security Intern DC Industries
DHS. (2015). Cybersecurity 101. Retrieved from https://www.dhs.gov/sites/default/files/publications/cybersecurity-101_4.pdf