About
Cybersecurity Awareness Month - observed every October - was created as a collaborative effort between government and industry to ensure every American has the resources they need to stay safer and more secure online. Since its original inception under leadership from the the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and the National Cyber Security Alliance (NCSA), Cybersecurity Awareness Month has grown exponentially, reaching consumers, small and medium-sized businesses, corporations, educational institutions and young people across the nation. Now in its 19th year, Cybersecurity Awareness Month continues to build momentum and impact co-led by NCSA and the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Agency (CISA).
The overarching theme for Cybersecurity Awareness Month 2022 is "See Yourself in Cyber." By focusing on a few key behaviors, the aspects of cybersecurity become more manageable and relatable. There are all kind of ways to keep your data protected but starting with the basics makes a huge difference. Focus on the following key behaviors:
- Enable multi-factor authentication
- Use strong passwords
- Update software
- Recognize and report phishing
For more information of how to get involved:
Cybersecurity Awareness Month | CISA
Cybersecurity Awareness Month - Stay Safe Online
Get Involved in Cybersecurity Awareness Month (staysafeonline.org)
Poster Contest
New York State is once again conducting a K-12 "Kids Safe Online" Poster Contest to encourage young people to use the Internet safely and securely and to craft messages and images that will best resonate with their peers.
The contest is open to all public, private or home-schooled students in kindergarten through Grade 12.
For more information on how to participate visit the 2022-2023 Poster Contest webpage.
Toolkit
Everyone is encouraged to take advantage of the following resources and use the information to promote cyber security awareness.
New York State Cyber Security Awareness Puzzles:
- Test Your Knowledge
The MS-ISAC develops and distributes Cyber Security Awareness Toolkit materials in support of Cyber Security Awareness Month. Their goal is to promote a consistent message about cyber security education and awareness and provide products for broad distribution. The materials include posters, calendars and other awareness material. To learn more, visit the MS-ISAC website.
Resources
Children/Students
Resources
For additional resources visit our Keeping Kids Safe Online page.
Games and Activities
Parents/Educators
Business/Government
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For additional resources visit our Local Government and Cybersecurity pages
Citizens
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Articles by US-CERT:
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For additional resources visit our Cybersecurity page