October is National Cybersecurity Awareness Month

National Cybersecurity Awareness Month (NCAM) – observed every October – was created by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and the National Cyber Security Alliance to raise awareness about the importance of cybersecurity. This October, NCAM is commemorating its 15th year as an annual initiative to ensure families, communities, businesses and the country’s infrastructure are better protected against cybercrimes.

Cybercrimes come in many forms like identity theft, financial fraud and online bullying and can cause harm and sometimes financial ruin for victims.

With so many Americans utilizing the internet on a daily basis, this month serves as an important reminder to protect personal information and review ways to stay safe and secure online.

In 2017, Gov. Eric Holcomb made an executive order to continue the Indiana Executive Council on Cybersecurity to combat hacking and cyberattacks on individuals and organizations.

The Indiana Department of Homeland Security has also taken steps to ensure our state is at the forefront of cybersecurity and encouragers Hoosiers to implement the following tips to help protect personal information:

• Use strong passwords;
• Do not open unsolicited or unknown emails;
• Use security software tools;
• Enable stronger authentication for log-in information;
• Know the intention of others online before providing access or information;
• Keep web browsers and operating systems up to date;
• Back up important files; and
• Be cautious when shopping online.

For more information and tips to improve your cybersecurity, visit GetPrepared.in.gov.

Additionally, Tuesday, Oct. 23, leaders of Cybertech, one the world’s largest cybersecurity conferences, and the state of Indiana will host the first Cybertech Midwest conference in Indianapolis.

This event will feature keynote speakers from both government and industry, including Gov. Eric Holcomb, who will give the opening address. The conference will also showcase exhibitions on global cyber threats, solutions, innovations and technologies.

To learn more about Cybertech Midwest, click here.