October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month and brings awareness to precautions needed as we head into the busiest online shopping season of the year.  Since 2004, the President of the United States and Congress have declared the month of October to be Cybersecurity Awareness Month, a dedicated month for the public and private sectors to work together to raise awareness about the importance of cybersecurity.  

This year marks the 20th Cybersecurity Awareness Month. The theme this year is “Secure Our World: 2023 and Beyond” which reflects a collaborative effort between government and industry to enhance cybersecurity awareness on a national and global scale.  

The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency’s (CISA) instituted the Secure Our World awareness campaign and program to promote behavioral change across the Nation. Individuals, families and small to medium-sized businesses can act each day to protect themselves when online or using connected devices by focusing on four critical actions:  

In addition, be aware of the latest scams by scanning newspaper articles and TV news reports.  Always be vigilant and think before you click. Interact only with trusted, secures sites and businesses.  Beware of really amazing offers and prices, you should know the ones that are just too good to be true. Do some research before you click. 

Being a wise user of today’s technology will protect your finances and provide peace of mind during a hectic season.