Cyber Security Awareness Month – Get Involved and Stay Safe - Cyber and Fraud Centre

Cyber Security Awareness Month – Get Involved and Stay Safe

October is Cyber Security Awareness Month, and the Cyber and Fraud Centre Scotland is here to help you improve your cyber defences. Whether you’re a business owner, employee, or individual, this month is a great opportunity to bolster your understanding of the latest cyber threats, and learn practical strategies to protect yourself online. We’ve got several exciting events, resources, and opportunities planned to help you stay informed and secure.

Why Cyber Security Awareness Month Matters

With the rise in cyber attacks targeting individuals, small businesses, and large organisations, it’s vital to stay aware of the latest threats and best practices to stay safe. Cyber Security Awareness Month plays a crucial role in educating people about the importance of online safety and encouraging safer habits.

Throughout October, we aim to raise awareness of the evolving cyber landscape, from phishing attacks to ransomware. By participating in Cyber Security Awareness Month, you’re taking a proactive step in protecting your personal information, your business, and the wider digital community.

Explore Our Resources: Your Hub for Cyber Security Guidance

In addition to our live events, we have a wealth of resources available on our website to guide you in strengthening your cyber security practices. Our Resource Library offers free access to a wide range of downloadable guides, reports, and toolkits that cover essential topics such as:

Phishing Prevention: Learn to spot and avoid phishing attempts with our step-by-step guide on identifying suspicious emails and websites.

Password Management: Discover best practices for creating strong passwords and using password managers.

Incident Response Planning: Gain insight into developing a robust incident response plan to minimise damage during a cyber attack.

Ransomware Resilience: Understand how to defend against ransomware and what to do if you’re targeted.

These resources are designed to provide practical support, whether you’re just beginning to improve your cyber defences or looking to fine-tune your existing security protocols.

Upcoming Events: Learn, Engage, and Win!

As part of Cyber Security Awareness Month, we have a fantastic lineup of events and activities that you won’t want to miss:

Cyber Bytes & Insights

A series of concise, practical training sessions designed to enhance your cyber security skills. Topics include phishing prevention, strong password management, and ransomware resilience. It’s a great opportunity to learn essential cyber security tactics. The first event is based upon Ransomware and will take place online on 31st October, you can register here.

Fireside Chat with Nicholas Scullion

Join us for an in-depth discussion with Nicholas Scullion, Managing Director of Scullion Law, as he shares how his firm recovered from a cyber attack. This chat offers valuable insights into the resilience strategies all businesses need to thrive in a digital world. Following this, David Goodacre from Barclays will host an Incident Response Panel, featuring an esteemed group of responders who will answer audience questions. Register here.

Social Media Competition

As part of Cyber Security Awareness Month, we’re running a competition on our social media platforms. Simply comment on our posts, sharing how you’re staying cyber safe this month, and you’ll be entered to win a Cyber and Fraud Centre goodie bag! It’s a fun way to share tips, learn from others, and get a chance to win some exclusive prizes.

Cyber Security Tips: How to Stay Safe This Month

While you’re engaging with our events and resources, here are some key tips to keep in mind this October:

Update Your Passwords
Ensure that all your accounts use strong, unique passwords. If you haven’t already, consider using a password manager to help manage them securely.

Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
MFA adds an extra layer of security to your accounts, protecting them even if your password is compromised.

Be Aware of Phishing
Phishing scams are increasingly common. Always check emails and messages for signs of fraud, such as unfamiliar senders or suspicious links.

Backup Your Data Regularly
Keep regular backups of important data to ensure you’re not caught off guard in case of a cyber attack.

Keep Your Software Updated
Make sure all your systems and applications are running the latest versions, as these updates often contain critical security patches.

Join Us and Stay Secure

Whether you’re attending our informative events, diving into the wealth of resources on our website, or participating in our social media competition, Cyber Security Awareness Month is the perfect time to improve your cyber safety. Visit the Cyber and Fraud Centre Scotland Resource Library for more information on protecting yourself, explore our membership deals and remember to comment on our social media for a chance to win!

08.10.24

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