Cyber Security Awareness Month
Oct
October has become synonymous with cyber security. Know around the world as Cyber Security Awareness Month, it is a global initiative that raises awareness of the pitfalls, vulnerabilities and best practice of cyber security.
What is Cyber Security?
Cyber security is the practice of protecting networks, computers, computer systems, programs and applications from unauthorised access, attack, damage or corruption. It involves using a combination of technologies, processes, and policies to build cyber resilience.
These tools are used to identify and defend against threats such as hacking, viruses, malware, phishing, and ransomware. Their aim is to maintain the security, confidentiality, integrity, and accessibility of cyber and digital assets.
Why is it Important?
We are in an age of technology and a culture of devices, the internet, computers and virtual reality. This quite literally is ‘the cyber age’ and while much of the technology is used for good, some is not! We have an obligation and duty to build defences against cyber threats, identify and mitigate vulnerabilities and teach everybody how to be safe and secure online.
It is impossible to comprehend the volume of data and information flowing around the world at any one time. Our whole lives are digital and what was once a simple process of shredding confidential paper documents is now an ever growing challenge of security and privacy.
What is Cybersecurity Awareness Month?
Cyber security awareness month was originally launched in the US back in October 2004. Developed to aid the American public with online safety and security, it was initially a collaboration between Homeland Security and the National Cybersecurity Alliance. It wasn’t long before it became a global initiative with many countries across the World designating October as the offical Cyber Security Awareness Month.
In the UK the National Cyber Security Strategy sets out the governments programme for building a strong foundation of organisational cyber security resilience. Raising awareness is an essential and effective part of this strategy!
Organisations such as The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) and The National Cyber Resilience Centre Group (NCRCG) use October each year to promote this strategy and raise awareness of cyber resilience and online safety.
Cyber security awareness month and campaign’s have a clear aim: To inform, raise awareness, offer resources and reduce the risks associated with cyber security through proactive cyber resilience.
