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October is National Cyber Security Month

  • Published
  • By Master Sgt. Trenton Musel
  • 375th Communications Group
SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill. --  Every time we log on to a computer, we're entering a cyber battlefield. Good cyber security practices can protect us and our families from a myriad of threats. Cyber security involves protecting information online--everything from email to cell phones, digital cable, airplane navigation, online shopping and medical records. The federal government recently set up a cyber security department and is hard at work coming up with a plan to protect cyberspace, but what can you and your family do?

The first step is to be more aware, understand what risks are out there. Dangers include viruses which can corrupt your entire system, alter important files or steal personal data. Other malicious code can use your computer to attack others and allow a stranger to gain personal information about you or your family from a picture posted on Facebook.

Here are a few things we can do to better protect ourselves:

Keep a Clean Machine

· Keep security software current: Having the latest security software, web browser, and operating system are the best defenses against viruses, malware, and other online threats.

· Automate software updates: Many software programs will automatically connect and update to defend against known risks. Turn on automatic updates if that's an available option.

Protect personal information

· Secure your accounts: Ask for protection beyond passwords. Many account providers now offer additional ways for you verify who you are before you conduct business on that site.

· Own your online presence: When available, set the privacy and security settings on websites to your comfort level for information sharing. It's ok to limit who you share information with.

Connect with Care

· When in doubt, throw it out: Links in email, tweets, posts, and online advertising are often the way cybercriminals compromise your computer. If it looks suspicious, even if you know the source, it's best to delete or if appropriate, mark as junk email.

· Protect your money: When banking and shopping, check to be sure the sites is security enabled. Look for web addresses with "https://" or "shttp://," which means the site takes extra measures to help secure your information. "Http://" is not secure.

Equip yourself and your family with the knowledge to stay safe and secure. For more information contact your organization's Information Assurance Officer or the 375th Air Mobility Wing's Information Assurance Office at 256-4000.