Understanding the future importance of cyber security 

It’s cyber security month! We will be sharing useful tips throughout October. With this being the final week of the Government of Canada’s Cyber Security Awareness month, it is important to be mindful of future online activities to ensure that you remain free from any cybersecurity risks. By maintaining consistent awareness of digital activities, you may be able to prevent, mitigate, and effectively respond to any possible cybersecurity risks that may occur. These can result from suspicious emails, file downloads, open wireless networks, or websites. It is everyone’s responsibility to be diligent and aware of potential threats to ensure a secure work environment for the College.

Here are 3 ways to ensure cyber security in the future:

1. Always stay aware of potential risks   

Cybersecurity risks can happen to anyone, anywhere, at any time. It’s vital to constantly stay aware, in order to take appropriate steps should a cybersecurity threat materialize in your computer network. Remember that although email phishing attempts, suspicious downloads, and questionable websites act as primary risks, cyber criminals are always looking for new ways to compromise digital security.

Tips to staying aware of cybersecurity threats:  

• Watch out for emails asking for confidential information, or with a link to a website asking for personal or confidential information.
• Use an updated anti-virus program to scan any email attachments or file downloads, and regularly scan your computer network.
• Review your search browser’s security and privacy settings.
• Turn off Wi-Fi and Bluetooth networks when not in use.
• Maintain password security.

2.Remain informed and up to date

As technology and the Internet continue to evolve, so do the possible threats. Make sure that you stay informed about current cybersecurity risks, and the actions you can take to prevent or minimize them. This will help ensure a secure working environment for you, your colleagues, and the College.

Tips to remaining current about cybersecurity risks: 

• Stay up to date about the most recent cybersecurity risks and trends.
• Ensure your anti-virus, internet browser, and operating system are updated to the latest version.
• Visit the Canadian Centre for Cyber Security for the latest news. http://cyber.gc.ca/en/

3. Report any possible cyber threats

There are various forms of cyber security threats, with each one having the potential to cause security issues. These threats can come in the form of emails, websites, and files.  Always ask if you are unsure about whether you have received a cybersecurity threat. Make sure you report any cybersecurity threats to the IT department or Senior Management.

Tips to report any cybersecurity threats: 

• Report any potential risks to IT department or Management
• Ask a colleague or the IT department if you are unsure about a possible threat