October is National Cybersecurity Awareness Month

Cybersecurity Awareness Month was created as a collaborative effort between government and industry to ensure every American has the resources they need to stay safer and more secure online.

Since its original inception under leadership from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and the National Cybersecurity Alliance, Cybersecurity Awareness Month has grown exponentially, reaching consumers, small and medium-sized businesses, corporations, educational institutions and young people across the nation. Cybersecurity Awareness Month continues to build momentum and impact co-led by the National Cybersecurity Alliance and the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Agency (CISA).

History

Cybersecurity Awareness Month was launched by the National Cybersecurity Alliance and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) in October 2004 as a broad effort to help all Americans stay safer and more secure online.

When Cybersecurity Awareness Month first began, the awareness efforts centered around advice like updating your antivirus software twice a year to mirror similar efforts around changing batteries in smoke alarms during daylight saving time.

Since the combined efforts of the National Cybersecurity Alliance and DHS have been taking place, the month has grown in reach and participation. Operated in many respects as a grassroots campaign, the month’s effort has grown to include the participation of a multitude of industry participants that engage their customers, employees, and the general public in awareness, as well as college campuses, nonprofits, and other groups.

Small actions can make a big difference. That’s why we’re focusing on the Core 4. Four easy steps anyone can take to boost their online safety:

• Use strong passwords and a password manager 
• Turn on multifactor authentication 
• Recognize and report scams
• Update your software 

About Cybersecurity Awareness Month  

Even amidst large-scale data breaches and cyberattacks, Cybersecurity Awareness Month reminds everyone that there are simple, effective ways to keep yourself safe online, protect your personal data, and ultimately help secure our world.