National Cybersecurity Awareness Month has become a global event, with both individuals as well as organizations participating — and for good reasons.
Cyber-attacks continue dominating tech headlines due to the wide-reaching consequences they have on everyone, from everyday internet users to governments and businesses. IBM’s Cost of a Data Breach report has revealed that the average cost to organizations is at an all-time high of $4.24 million.
Some of the most significant data breaches ever recorded show the magnitude of data that was impacted (with a “B”) per breach. Millions of people who depend on social media platforms, search engines and fitness apps have felt the pain that comes with compromised information.
These numbers will continue to rise as the world becomes more connected and bad actors become more sophisticated.
This is unless we have the skills and knowledge to protect ourselves from the attacks of attackers. Every October, we need to raise awareness about digital safety and ensure that all citizens have the tools and resources necessary to protect their online data.
Cybersecurity Awareness Month (Cybersecurity Awareness Month) has been an international event spearheaded by the National Cybersecurity Alliance (DHS) and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. It aims to provide people and organizations with the resources and tools they need to protect their data online and prevent cyberattacks.
Participate in any of the activities hosted by Global Knowledge or Skillsoft, as well as the National Cybersecurity Alliance (and other events) to celebrate this month! ).
Here are some ways that you can get involved:
Global Knowledge has a complete list of activities
The Enemy Within: How to Detect Supply Chain Attacks and Stop them Before It’s Too Late
Paula Januszkiewicz, CEO of CQURE, will present security professionals with the techniques attackers use to seize supply chains hostage. Learn More
Learn how to keep your network secure using Nmap
This hands-on lab allows you to learn how to use Nmap, an Open-Source port-scan tool for network discovery, vulnerability scanning, and security risk detection. The lab comes with a guide that includes detailed instructions and exercises to help you get the most out of the training.
Cybersecurity myths busted by a security expert
James Michael Stewart, CISSP, created a video series in three parts that dispels cybersecurity myths. He explains how attackers can use everything, from social media friends lists to the inability of password authentication to compromise unsuspecting individuals. Learn more
The National Cybersecurity Alliance has a Week-by-Week calendar
The National Cybersecurity Alliances has resources available on its website that can be used to help individuals or organizations spread awareness about security issues, news, and trends. For more information on this year’s theme and weekly activities, visit its website.
Here’s a summary of what’s on its website.
Week of October 4, Week 1: Cyber Smart
Cybersecurity Awareness Month’s first week will begin with:
Security best practices highlighted
Cyber hygiene is the focus
Start with the basics
“Creating strong passwords, using multi-factor authentication, backing your data up, and updating your software are great places for you to start. This is a great way #BeCyberSmart!
Week 2: Fight the Phish
“Phishing attacks have flourished since the COVID pandemic started in 2020, and today, phishing is responsible for more than 80 per cent of security incidents reported.”
The second week will help people better understand phishing via
Email
Text Message
Chats and chat bots
Phishing is a common tactic used by attackers to gain access or compromise computers.