Cybersecurity Month 2021

October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month

Join Great Erie in spreading cybersecurity awareness and encourage everyone to own their role in protecting Internet-connect devices. Do Your Part. Be Cyber Smart.

Now in its 18th year, Cybersecurity Awareness Month continues to raise awareness about the importance of cybersecurity across our nation. Held every October, Cybersecurity Awareness Month is a collaborative effort between government and industry to ensure all Americans have the resources they need to be safer and more secure online. The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Agency (CISA), the federal lead for Cybersecurity Awareness Month, co-leads Cybersecurity Awareness Month with the National Cyber Security Alliance (NCSA).

The focus of Cybersecurity Awareness Month's first week is "Do Your Part. Be Cyber Smart." Cybersecurity starts with YOU and is everyone's responsibility. There are currently an estimated 5.2 billion Internet users - over 65% of the world's population! This number will only grow, making the need to be Cyber Smart more important than ever. 

Cybersecurity Awareness Month's second week focuses on steps individuals and organizations can take to reduce their risks to phishing and ransomware. This year has seen an increase in phishing incidents that often lead to ransomware attacks. These attacks disrupt the way we work, learn, and socialize. With our homes, schools, and businesses more connected than ever, it's vital to Be Cyber Smart. Learn how to Fight the Phish and report suspicious emails.

Cybersecurity Awareness Month's third week is Cybersecurity Career Awareness Week. This week, learn the vital role cybersecurity professionals play in global society and security. Also, learn how you can explore Cybersecurity as your next career. For professional development and educational resources visit our site. 

The final week of Cybersecurity Awareness Month looks at how Cybersecurity is a year-round effort and should be one of individuals and organizations' first considerations when they create or buy new devices and connected services. Join us and get involved by visiting www.cisa.gov/cybersecurity-awareness-month for more information.