October is National Cyber Security Awareness Month

October is National Cyber Security Awareness Month. Throughout the month, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and the National Cyber Security Alliance raise awareness of the importance of cybersecurity to make sure families, communities, businesses and the country’s infrastructure are better protected against cybercrimes.

This year's theme, Do Your Part. #BeCyberSmart, encourages individuals and organizations to own their role in protecting their part of cyberspace, stressing personal accountability and the importance of taking proactive steps to enhance cybersecurity.

Cybercrimes come in many forms, such as identity theft, financial fraud and online bullying and can cause great emotional harm and sometimes financial ruin for victims. Ransomware in particular has become a significant issue in the past year.

The Indiana Department of Homeland Security offers ways Hoosiers can protect personal information online:

• Be alert to impersonators, especially through email, also known as “phishing"
• Safely dispose of personal information
• Encrypt your data – look for “https://”
• Create strong passwords and keep them safe
• Don’t overshare on social networking sites
• Keep your devices secure
• Use security software
• Avoid phishing emails
• Be wise about wi-fi
• Lock up your laptop
• Read privacy policies
• Use multi-factor authentication

In addition, The Indiana Cybersecurity Hub provides a variety of resources to increase safety while online. This website aims to serve as a central hub of information for Hoosiers, government officials and business owners to stay cyber secure.

For more information on Indiana’s cybersecurity efforts, visit GetPrepared.in.gov or the Indiana Cybersecurity Hub.