Overview

October 2011 is the 8th annual National Cyber Security Awareness Month (NCSAM) sponsored by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), the National Cyber Security Alliance (NCSA), and the Multi-State Information Sharing and Analysis Center (MS-ISAC) to raise awareness about the importance of everyone sharing the responsibility for securing the Internet.

Proclamations - NCSAM

• Presidential Proclamation - Barack Obama
• DCCCD Chancellor's Proclamation - Dr. Wright Lassiter

According to StaySafeOnline.org:

"We have moved beyond connecting to the Internet while being tethered to a computer. Now, we can get online from a myriad of devices, including smart phones and tablets, that can be used virtually anywhere at any time. Even when we are not directly connected, the Internet supports our everyday lives through our financial transactions, transportation systems, emergency response systems, personal communication and more. This reliance will only increase as digital technology advances and Internet access increases.

It starts with STOP. THINK. CONNECT., a simple action for all of us to employ to stay safer and more secure online.

• STOP: Before you use the Internet, take time to understand the risks and learn how to spot potential problems.
• THINK: Take a moment to be certain the path ahead is clear. Watch for warning signs and consider how your actions online could impact your safety, or your family’s.
• CONNECT: Enjoy the Internet with greater confidence, knowing you’ve taken the right steps to safeguard yourself and your computer.

By incorporating Our Shared Responsibility and STOP. THINK. CONNECT. into your online routine, you will be doing your part in protecting yourself, your family, your community and your country."

Resources

Take the opportunity to review the cyber security resources available through:

• Department of Homeland Security (DHS) National Cyber Security Division: outlines the Department's strategic national cybersecurity objectives.
• U.S. Computer Emergency Readiness Team (US-CERT): offers safety tips, incident reports, and the latest cyber alerts.
• Multi-State Information Sharing and Analysis Center (MS-ISAC): comprises members of all 50 states, local governments, and U.S. territories and districts, and provides downloadable awareness materials including newsletters, posters, bookmarks, and briefings.
• MS-ISAC Cyber Security Toolkit 
• Federal Trade Commission's OnGuard Online: provides practical tips and downloadable print and Web materials about how to avoid Internet fraud and how to protect personal information.
• STOP. THINK. CONNECT. Tips and Advice Sheet: provides practical tips and advice on how to protect yourself and stay safe online.
• October 2011 Texas DIR Cyber Security Tips Newsletter: Disaster Preparedness for Personal Information Assets

Contact Information

Questions or comments regarding information privacy and security should be sent to SecurityPrivacy@dcccd.edu or contact your location Information Privacy and Security Officer (Novell log in required).