The month of October is National Cybersecurity Awareness Month and was first launched by the National Cyber Security Alliance and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security in October 2004.

Today, with over 4.8 billion internet users worldwide – over 62% of the world’s population – staying cybersecurity aware becomes more important than ever with every passing day and growing internet use across the globe.

As both an internet-service provider and electric utility, we’re here to help educate our members on how to protect themselves in cyberspace and take proactive steps to enhance their own cyber safety.

To that end, we’re sharing invaluable tools and tips throughout this month for reducing cybersecurity risks and protecting yourself online. That’s because scammers, hackers, and other bad actors on the internet are numerous and constant. Awareness, accountability, and know-how against these agitators are key to protecting yourself and your family from cyber-attacks.

• When in doubt, throw it out – If you’re unsure who an email or message is from, delete it.
• Think before you click – Never open links or attachments found in emails or messages from unknown or suspicious sources.
• Share with care – Think before posting about yourself or others online.
• Own your online presence – Configure privacy settings on your apps, accounts, and devices to protect your sensitive information.
• Lock down your login – Create long and unique passphrases for all accounts and use multi-factor authentication wherever available.
• Keep tabs on your apps – Delete those apps you’re no longer using to free up space and enhance your security.
• Keep a clean machine – Keep all software on internet connected devices updated to improve performance and security.
• Stay updated – Keep software on all your connected devices up to date.
• Get savvy about wi-fi spots – Public wi-fi is NOT secure and can put your device and data at risk.

The bottom line is, if you connect it, you must protect it! Cybersecurity starts with you and is everyone’s responsibility. Learn more at https://staysafeonline.org/, or follow us on social media this month to stay informed!