Cybersecurity Awareness Month

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    Cybersecurity is the combination of practices, techniques, and technologies that help to prevent or lessen the consequences of cyberattacks. No matter how tech savvy or computer literate you are, cybersecurity is important for everyone to understand because of the vast quantities of data stored electronically.

     Every October since 2004, the federal government has observed Cybersecurity Awareness Month, opens a new window. Both the government and field leaders encourage businesses, individuals, and other organizations to take strategic steps towards protecting themselves online. Beginning in 2023, the ongoing theme of Cybersecurity Awareness Month is “Secure Our World.” The theme emphasizes the importance of staying alert online and that everyone has a role in cybersecurity.

    While it may seem like cyberattacks are inevitable or hard to understand, there are many tips and tricks you can utilize to safeguard your information online. As part of the month-long observance, the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), opens a new window has simplified cybersecurity into four simple tasks that anyone can do. They are:

  1. Use Strong Passwords

Passwords should be long, unique, and not used for multiple accounts. Use capital and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters.

  1. Turn On Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
MFA allows you to confirm your identity when logging in to your accounts; usually by sending a code to your cellphone that you then use to login to your account. This practice can keep unauthorized logins at bay by adding one more layer of protection a would-be hacker must get through in order to access the account.
 
  1. Recognize & Report Phishing
Phishing is a type of social engineering by which a message, email, or phone call that seems to come from a legitimate source tricks a user into revealing their information. It is important to stay aware and make sure that the messages you receive are really coming from who they say they are.
 
  1. Update Software
Software updates are released all the time, but it is easy to miss installing every latest version for each piece of software that you use. Consider changing your computer or phone settings to regularly scan for new updates and automatically install them.
     The Fulton County Library System has many resources to help you learn more about and fine tune your cybersecurity skills. With your library card, you can:
 
  1. Research the latest Cybersecurity and IT advancements with GALILEO, opens a new window or ProQuest, opens a new window.
  2. Brush up on your knowledge with online courses through Universal Class, opens a new window and Access Video on Demand, opens a new window.
  3. Attend in person and virtual tech programs, opens a new window when they are offered at any of our 34 branches.
  4. Check out, opens a new window the latest books and ebooks about a wide variety of tech topics.
Cybersecurity Awareness Month

List created by FCLSCENTRALGENERALCOLLECTIONS

October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month. There are many ways to safeguard your information online. Check out one of the books below to refresh your skills or learn about a new tech topic.











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Sources:
  1. https://www.cisa.gov/cybersecurity-awareness-month, opens a new window
  2. https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/presidential-actions/2024/09/30/a-proclamation-on-cybersecurity-awareness-month-2024/, opens a new window
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