October Is National Cyber Security Month

The National Cyber Security Alliance (NCSA) and The Department of Homeland Security today announced the launch of key programs and events to educate Internet users of all ages about safe online practices throughout October in observance of National Cyber Security Awareness Month.

National Cyber Security Awareness Month unites entities from federal, state and local government as well as the education and business communities, all of whom share a common goal to educate the public and provide tools to help them engage in safe online activity. The NCSA is recognized as a central clearinghouse for consumer education and information about online safety. The organization works closely with Homeland Security, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and a variety of other public and private organizations to ensure that messages about online safety and security are accurate and consistent.

Throughout the month of October, NCSA and Homeland Security will work with key industry partners to spread the word about online safety by providing tips and resources and hosting special events designed specifically for home users, small businesses, and the education community. Specific activities include:


Distributing a national public service announcement entitled “Stop, Think, Click” which urges consumers to protect their valuable personal data through a variety of online best practices;
Sponsoring a variety of regional events, such as small business workshops and cyber security bootcamps, which will take consumer education to the grassroots level; and
Promoting cyber awareness initiatives among the education community via student assemblies, Webcasts and events at college campuses throughout the U.S.

“Cyber Security Awareness Month is an opportunity to raise awareness of the importance of cyber security and empower all Americans to protect themselves online and ensure that their computers are not used to attack others,” said Andy Purdy, acting director of the National Cyber Security Division at the Department of Homeland Security.

“We share a common goal with Homeland Security and our industry partners, to provide Americans with the tools and information they need to practice safe online behaviors during National Cyber Security Awareness Month and throughout the year,” said Ron Teixeira, Executive Director, National Cyber Security Alliance. “The scope and impact of existing and emerging online threats requires an ongoing partnership between government, businesses, schools, and consumers. Working together, we can make the Internet safer for everyone.”

For more information regarding National Cyber Security Awareness Month and to sign up for free cyber alerts please visit: www.staysafeonline.org.

posted by Consumer Help Web Editorial Team at 10:20 AM |