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October is National Cybersecurity Awareness Month

October 20, 2020

​From Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency (PEMA)

Did you know there are an estimated 4.8 billion internet users or 62% of the world’s population?

This year’s theme is Do Your Part. #BeCyberSmart. The idea is for each of us to take ownership of the role we play in making cyberspace safer and more secure. Cybersecurity is a shared responsibility.

Is there anyone that is safe from a cyberattack?
NO! Computer systems and mobile technologies are vulnerable regardless of whether they are part of a large corporation, small business, or belong to a home user.

Can children be victims of cybercrime?
Every age group is vulnerable to cyberbullying, but teenagers and young adults are common victims. Cyberbullying is a very common problem in schools. The internet is fairly anonymous, so it is appealing for bullies because it is difficult to trace. That is how rumors, threats, and photos can be disseminated on the internet very quickly.

How can we protect children during COVID-19?
Schools, communities, families and caregivers have experienced a disruption to their sense of security, structure and routine due to the COVID-19 pandemic. With many schools across Pennsylvania moving to a virtual or a hybrid model, more children are learning from home. Creating a safe, virtual learning environment is vital to protecting children.

It’s not just children at risk.
With the increased use of computers, tablets, and smartphones by older adults, they are also more vulnerable to online scams and fraud.

Whether using technology in public or at home, protect yourself and loved ones by following these tips to, “Do Your Part” and #BeCyberSmart:

  1. Secure your Wi-Fi network. Your home’s wireless router is the primary entrance for cybercriminals. Change the factory-set default password and username.  
  2. Enable stronger authentication. Add an extra layer of security by using a multi-factor authentication.
  3. Keep a clean machine. Make sure software is up-to-date and install updates for apps on your device’s operating system.
  4. Know your apps. Review and understand the details of an app before downloading and installing it. Also, check to make sure the vendor or creator of the app is reputable.
  5. Consider what you share. Limit the amount of personal information you share about yourself online.

Learn More
To learn more about cybersecurity and what you can do to prevent it and report it, visit these resources:

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