October is National Cybersecurity Awareness Month. The National Rural Electric Cooperative Association works to promote that every year to help raise awareness among co-ops and their members. The following is taken from some information NRECA provided to be passed along to members.
Facebook, Target, Home Depot, CapitalOne and even the U.S. Office of Personnel Management have all been attacked by cybercriminals. Let’s face it: In today’s world, the cybersecurity threats facing our nation can seem overwhelming – and downright scary. Cybersecurity - specifically the protection and security of consumer-members’ assets and the nation’s complex, interconnected network of power plants, transmission lines and distribution facilities - is a top priority for electric cooperatives and other segments of the electric power industry.
This October is National Cybersecurity Awareness Month (NCSAM). Since its inception under leadership from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and the National Cyber Security Alliance, NCSAM has grown exponentially, reaching consumers, small and medium-sized businesses, corporations, educational institutions and young people across the nation.
By raising awareness and understanding basic cybersecurity practices, we can all work together to combat cyberthreats.
You have a role to play in ensuring the security of your personal and professional data. Use the tips below to safeguard your computer:
Keep all software on internet-connected devices – including PCs, tablets and smartphones – up to date to reduce risk of infection from malware.
Create long passwords that only you will remember. Remember, a strong password is at least 14 characters long. Passphrases – multiple words strung together – can help create longer passwords.
Don’t click on weblinks or attached files in emails when you’re not certain of who the sender is. And, even if the sender seems to be someone you know, if you are not expecting them to send you an attachment, double-check to make sure it’s not a forged message.
Keep pace with new ways to stay safe online. Check trusted websites for the latest information. Share security tips with friends, family and colleagues, and encourage them to be web wise.
We hope you will join us in raising cybersecurity awareness. To learn more about NCSAM, visit www.StaySafeOnline.org
Jayson Bishop
*Midwest Electric is an equal opportunity provider and employer.*