What Is Cybersecurity Awareness Month?

Trading information in the modern age can be easy—and dangerous. The ability to communicate on a whim can lead to identity theft, invasion of privacy and financial ruin. This is why protecting one’s personal and professional data has become more of a priority.

Whether you’re creating a new start up business, or keeping personal data private, protecting information is a universal concern. Oftentimes, the size of an organization isn’t a deterrent, as was the case with credit reporting agency Equifax and online shopping behemoth Amazon, both of which were hacked.

In order to heighten the public and private sector’s understanding of cybersecurity the National Cyber Security Division, which operates under the Department of Homeland Security, designated October National Cyber Security Awareness Month in 2004.

During this time cybersecurity sector experts discuss the importance of cybersecurity with various communities, such as businesses and schools.

Their goal is to educate individuals on the importance of having adequate cybersecurity precautions in place. Lacking sufficient cybersecurity standards, which is the protection of valuable digital information, can cost a company or individual.

The DHS website is a great resource for a person or organization to learn how they can implement simple steps to protect themselves. Although it is October 10th, it is never too late to take cybersecurity seriously!

Happy Cybersecurity Awareness Month!