# Cybersecurity Awareness ### September 6, 2023 We live in a digital age, where we interact with technology and the internet on a daily basis. This should make cybersecurity a top priority. What is Cybersecurity? The practice of protecting internet-connected systems, including hardware, software, and data, from attack, damage, or unauthorized access. ### Cybersecurity Awareness Month (CAM) Cybersecurity Awareness Month was launched by the National Cybersecurity Alliance (NCA) and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) in October 2004 as a broad effort to help all Americans stay safe and more secure online. Cybersecurity Awareness Month – observed every October – is a collaboration between the government and private industry to raise awareness about digital security. The goal is to empower everyone to protect their personal data from digital forms of crime. #### History Highlights 2009 - DHS Secretary launched a Cybersecurity Awareness Month event in Washington, D.C. – became the highest-ranking government official to participate in the months’ activities 2010 - STOP. THINK. CONNECT campaign launched – featured in the president’s proclamation for the month, as the national cybersecurity education and awareness message - NCA moved the launch, to sites around the country – previous sites included: Seattle and Bellevue, WA, Ypsilanti, MI, Omaha, NE, Boston, MA, Nashville, TN and Washington, D.C. 2011 - NCA and DHS developed the concept of weekly themes, during the month – made aspects of cybersecurity easier to communicate and aligned other groups with the specific themes #### 2023 Key Behaviors The National Cybersecurity Alliance will focus on the following key behaviors for 2023 Cybersecurity Awareness Month: - Enable Multi-Factor Authentication - Use Strong Passwords and a Password Manager - Update Software - Recognize and Report Phishing #### MCC Campus Events to Celebrate Don’t get spooked by cybersecurity! During the month of October, the ISS – Cybersecurity Team will be celebrating Cybersecurity Awareness Month. Come join in the fun, learn about good cyber hygiene behaviors and ways to stay safe in this digital world.
**Date** **Time** **Location** **Audience** **Sponsor**
**Monday, 10/2/23** 1130am – 130pm Table outside, MAC building Students/faculty/staff ISS – Cybersecurity Team
**Tuesday, 10/17/23** 12pm – 1pm Presentation: Staying Safe Online, LTC 318 Students/faculty/staff Jean Nixon, Academic Support & Tutoring
**Monday, 10/30/23** 1130am – 130pm Table outside café, LTC building Students/faculty/staff ISS – Cybersecurity Team
#### Get Social In October, use #CybersecurityAwarenessMonth to share tips, tricks or anything cybersecurity related!