October is National Cybersecurity Awareness Month, and the City of Aurora is offering a free home internet security course for families.
The City of Aurora’s Information Technology department is collaborating with KnowBe4, the world’s largest internet security awareness training platform, to offer Aurora residents a free home internet security course designed to assist all members of the family in making wise decisions when it comes to internet usage.
The eight online lessons include Passwords, Online Banking Security, Keeping Your Identity Safe, Avoiding Malware, Keeping Personal Information Confidential, Protecting Children Online, Securing Your Home Network, and Email & Attachments Safety.
The password is ‘homecourse.’
“Because so many more people are working from home, internet security is even more pronounced this year,” said Leela Karumuri, City of Aurora Director of Cyber and Technology Risk. “We want to make sure our community is as ‘cyber smart’ as possible too.”
The City of Aurora is also participating in the Cybersecurity Awareness Month Champions Program, a collaborative effort among businesses, government agencies, colleges and universities, associations, nonprofit organizations, and individuals committed to promoting online safety and privacy awareness.
“Our goal is to emphasize personal accountability and stress the importance of taking proactive steps to enhance cybersecurity at home and in the workplace,” said Michael Pegues, Aurora's Chief Information Officer.
The Cybersecurity Awareness Month theme is ‘Do Your Part. #BeCyberSmart.’ The main weekly focus areas will revolve around:
● Understanding and implementing basic cyber hygiene, including the importance of strong passphrases, using multi-factor authentication, performing software updates, and backing up data.
● Recognizing and reporting phishing attempts, whether it’s through email, text messages, or chat boxes.
● Empowering individuals to not only practice safe online behavior but consider joining the mission of securing our online world by considering a career in cybersecurity.
● Making cybersecurity a priority in business by making products and processes “secure by design” and considering cybersecurity when purchasing new internet-connected devices.
Now in its 18th year, Cybersecurity Awareness Month continues to build momentum and impact with the ultimate goal of providing everyone with the information they need to stay safer and more secure online.