Cybersecurity campaign urges online safety at Florida State

In today’s helter-skelter world of online interactions, transactions and distractions, the risk of identity theft, credit card fraud and other security threats are more widespread than ever. And it’s going to take a superhero effort to battle it.

This October, Florida State University joins a national effort to promote cybersecurity and privacy by participating in National Cyber Security Awareness Month (#NCSAM). The “Be a Cyberhero” campaign sponsored by the Information Security and Privacy Office (ISPO) within Information Technology Services (ITS), challenges faculty, staff and students to make a commitment to build a safe cyberspace at Florida State.

The purpose of the campaign is to educate the campus on safe cybersecurity practices and empower users to learn how to use the Internet safely and securely at work, school and home.

“The cyber threat landscape is getting worse,” said ITS Director of Information Security and Privacy Mike Russo. “The Internet is a wonderful and empowering tool, but it’s not as safe as you might think. It is very important that individuals understand the dangers and limitations of the online environment and how to protect private information.”

During October, ISPO is hosting several campus events to endorse cybersecurity and privacy, including information booths on campus at Market Wednesday on Oct. 8 and Oct. 22, and the Benefits and Wellness Fair on Oct. 21.

In addition, security awareness resources and activities are available online at security.fsu.edu/NCSAM.

  • Take the Cyber Pledge – make a commitment to take personal responsibility for online safety at work, school and home.
  • Watch online security awareness videos – watch short videos about Internet safety, mobile devices, passwords, social networking and more for a chance to win an HP ElitePad 1000 G2.
  • Review cybersecurity tips – browse a list of quick tips and adopt some new, safe online habits.
  • Try the phishing email challenge – see if you have what it takes to identify phishing emails.

For more information on Cyber Security Awareness Month, visit security.fsu.edu/NCSAM.