October 2023 marks the 20 Years of Cyber Security Awareness Month (CSAM)
Vikash Lalsing
Cyber Security | Data Privacy | ISO27001 Lead Auditor | CISM | Prince2 Certified Professional
October 2023 marks the 20 Years of Cyber Security Awareness Month (CSAM) which is an initiative brought to life through a collaboration by government agencies. CSAM aims to ensure that every individual stays safe and secure while using online services. This dedicated month highlights the importance of cybersecurity and raises awareness about the growing threats to our digital world.
Small to Medium Business may sometimes lack the resources and expertise to defend against cyber threats effectively, and they are particularly vulnerable to cyber-attacks. There is a fair amount of free online resources that can help such businesses raise awareness among their employees on cyber security. However, they often don’t know where to start. Here is a list of free resources and best practices available freely online that small to medium businesses can use to enhance their cybersecurity awareness during this crucial month and beyond.
1. Phishing Awareness and Testing
Understanding the nuances of phishing attacks is crucial in the battle against cybercrime. PhishingBox and Intradyn offer free phishing tests, allowing organizations to assess the susceptibility of their employees to these deceptive tactics. Why not have your employees take these tests and report on their score? This way you can easily evaluate their risk level.
2. Cybersecurity Basics for Small Businesses
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) provide comprehensive cybersecurity basics tailored for small businesses. NIST's even has case studies series that offers real-world insights into securing small enterprises.
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3. Awareness Resources
As per the recommendations by the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), this year’s CSAM focuses on incorporating four key behaviors in fortifying cybersecurity. These are covered under CISA’s simplicity of online safety with its "Staying Safe Online Is Easy With These Four Steps". The below resources from StaySafeOnline also cover these key behaviors and can enable businesses to better prepare themselves against cyber threats. Share them with your employees to raise awareness as part of your awareness campaign:
4. Resources for Software Development Teams
For businesses that have in-house software development teams, the Secure Software Development Framework (SSDF) by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) offers a comprehensive guide to building secure software from the ground up. Just adapt it to your needs and align your in-built software products with international standards.
Cyber Security Awareness Month 2023 provides a unique opportunity for businesses and individuals to bolster their defenses against the digital threat landscape. By harnessing these free resources, organizations can fortify their cybersecurity practices, enhance awareness, and contribute to a safer online environment for everyone. Remember, staying proactive and well-informed is the key to mitigating cyber risks and ensuring a secure digital future.