October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month: Secure Our World: 2023 and Beyond

Our world is more connected now than ever, the rise of fast processors (smarter chip technology), high-speed networks (5G), smarter mobile phones, quantum computers and smart devices (IoT) has shifted the digital landscape. ?As we enter the month of October, we once again mark Cybersecurity Awareness Month, a time when we reflect on the importance of securing our digital lives.

?The US Government the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency “CISA” has themed this year's theme, "Secure Our World: 2023 and Beyond," serves as a powerful reminder of our collective responsibility to protect ourselves and the global digital ecosystem. CISA has given four essential information security “cybersecurity” advice to ensure that we can all navigate this ever-evolving digital landscape safely and securely.

Use Strong Passwords

The foundation of any robust cybersecurity strategy begins with strong, unique passwords. A strong password is one that is long, random, and includes a combination of uppercase letters, lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. Crafting such passwords for each of your accounts can be a daunting task, but fortunately, password managers are here to help. These tools can generate and store complex passwords, ensuring that you can maintain unique credentials for every account without the burden of memorization.

?Turn On Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

Passwords alone are no longer sufficient to protect your online accounts. Enter Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA), a security feature that requires you to provide two or more forms of verification before gaining access to your accounts. Enabling MFA significantly reduces the likelihood of falling victim to hacking attempts. It's crucial to activate MFA on all your online accounts, with particular emphasis on email, social media, and financial accounts. The extra layer of protection MFA provides can be the difference between a secure account and a compromised one.

Recognize & Report Phishing

Phishing attacks continue to be a prevalent threat in the digital world. These attacks often involve unsolicited messages, which appear to be from legitimate sources, asking for personal information or credentials. Being cautious of such messages is vital. Never share sensitive information or login credentials with unknown sources. If you suspect a phishing attempt, report it and delete the message immediately. By doing so, you not only protect yourself but also contribute to the collective effort in combating cybercrime.

Update Software

Outdated software is a vulnerability waiting to be exploited by cybercriminals. To safeguard your devices and data, ensure that all your software is current. Software updates often include crucial security patches and enhancements that protect against known vulnerabilities. If automatic updates are not available, make it a habit to check for updates and apply them promptly and regularly. This simple yet effective practice can fortify your defences against evolving cyber threats.

By following these essential cybersecurity tips, we can play an active role in protecting ourselves, our digital identities, and the broader online community. Let's make a collective effort to raise awareness and prioritize cybersecurity not only during this month but throughout the year. Together, we can build a more secure digital world for ourselves and future generations. ISACA Lusaka Chapter a professional body of thought leaders will be hosting the cybersecurity conference and SOCathon as the epitome of bringing cybersecurity awareness to businesses and public bodies.