Cybersecurity events continue to grow at a rapid rate, especially with the adoption of technologies like artificial intelligence (AI), the internet of things (IoT) and advanced analytics. Unfortunately, just 16 percent of executives say that their organizations are prepared to deal with cyber risks, according to McKinsey & Company. A 2021 Cybersecurity Market Report revealed that in response to increasing awareness and rising investments in cybersecurity infrastructure, the global cybersecurity market size is projected to grow from $217.9 billion in 2021 to $345.4 billion in 2026.
Every person plays a key role in making cyberspace a more secure place. To help share the theme of shared responsibility and raise awareness about the importance of cybersecurity for everyone, National Cybersecurity Awareness Month was born.
What Is Cybersecurity Awareness Month?
Cybersecurity Awareness Month is observed in the U.S. each October. The event is a collaborative effort between the government and IT industry to provide consumers and businesses with the resources they need to stay safe online. National Cybersecurity Awareness Month was originally launched in October 2004 by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the National Cyber Security Alliance.
For 2022, the theme is “See Yourself in Cyber. #CyberMonth” and the CISA and NCA will highlight key action steps that everyone should take:
- Enable Multi-Factor Authentication
- Use Strong Passwords
- Recognize and Report Phishing
- Update Your Software
What Is Its Purpose?
Approximately 594 million people are affected globally by cybercrimes each year, according to the Center for Internet Security. Cybersecurity Awareness Month is a month-long public awareness campaign that was designed to raise awareness about current cybersecurity best practices and to communicate the importance of making a collective effort to prevent cyber scams and intrusions. This nationwide cybersecurity event aims to protect citizens from cyber threats that could have a significant impact on their privacy and safety.
Why Cybersecurity Awareness Month Is Important
The average person spends approximately 59 hours a week using the internet, according to a recent study published by Scotsman.com. In a time where the internet plays a critical role in the daily life of Americans, the need for increased cybersecurity awareness is paramount. Cybersecurity Awareness Month helps stress the importance of taking proactive steps to enhance cybersecurity both at home and in the workplace.
Cybersecurity Awareness Month is an opportunity for organizations to remind and educate everyone on their role to play in staying secure.
Understand The Cybercrime Trends And Recent Attacks
Keeping up with current cybercrime trends and recent attacks help consumers know what to expect in cyberspace. Cybersecurity education can help people better understand the psychology behind cyber crimes and the motives that drive cyber criminals to attempt attacks. During National Cybersecurity Awareness Week, information and resources are released that aim to make the online environment safer and more secure.
Ensure Your Cybersecurity Processes Are Up To Date
Businesses are responsible for following cybersecurity best practices to keep sensitive employee and consumer information safe from cybercriminals. A single cyber attack could damage a business and hurt its reputation. Cybersecurity Awareness Month helps remind businesses to review their current cybersecurity processes and ensure that they are up to date. There are many ways that companies can protect their business from cyber threats, such as by backing up data, securing devices and networks, encrypting important information and using multi-factor authentication (MFA).
Review Incident Response And Other Procedures With Stakeholders
An incident response plan refers to a written set of instructions that outline how an organization should respond to cyber attacks, data breaches and other security incidents. Reviewing incident responses and other procedures with key stakeholders can help ensure that all parties are on the same page in regard to how to respond to unexpected cyber events. Having the proper processes in place can help minimize the duration of the event and reduce the extent of the damage.
Train Your Employees To Think Critically About Cyber Safety
Approximately 88 percent of all data breaches are caused by an employee mistake, according to researchers from Stanford University. With human error being a driving force behind many cybersecurity events, it is critical to express the importance of employee training and cyber safety education. Businesses should adopt training strategies for both new and existing workers to ensure that employees are kept up to date about the best cybersecurity practices.
Speak With Hartman About Cybersecurity Awareness
This October, businesses can recognize National Cybersecurity Awareness Month by doing their part to prepare employees to take on cyber threats and implement the necessary processes to keep confidential information and systems safe and secure. Working with an experienced strategic business and IT consulting firm can help companies identify their vulnerabilities and mitigate risk. To learn more or to request a consultation, contact the professionals at Hartman Executive Advisors today.
