Observance proves cybersecurity is a team effort

U.S. Army Europe Cyber security officials want to remind members of the U.S. forces community in Europe that October marks the 11th annual National Cyber Security Awareness Month, and it’s everyone’s duty to protect Army information and communications.

“Today the Internet is part of everyone’s life every day. But while people routinely use the Internet at work, home, for enjoyment and to connect with friends and family, being constantly connected brings increased risk of theft, fraud and abuse,” said Daniel Hingtgen, chief of Cyber security, Policy, Programs and Training for the USAREUR office of the Deputy Chief of Staff for Communications.

No country, industry, community or individual is immune to cyber risks. Americans face constant cyber threats against the nation’s critical infrastructure and economy. As individuals, cyber security risks can threaten finances, identity and privacy.

“Our reliance on critical infrastructure and the digital technology that operates it makes cyber security one of the U.S.’s most important national security priorities and one in which every American has a role to play,” Hingtgen said. “The slogan ‘cyber security is a team effort’ underscores that shared responsibility.”

During October, USAREUR cyber security officials plan to engage the Army in Europe community through events and initiatives designed to raise awareness, to educate people about cyber security, and to increase the resilience of cyber infrastructure to prevent or respond to cyber incidents.

Free cyber security courses will be offered in communities across USAREUR, officials added, to provide social networking systems awareness and training to Soldiers, Department of Defense civilian employees, contractor employees and family members in the Army in Europe community.

Sessions will be held from 9 to 11 a.m. and 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. Oct. 24 at the Kaiserslautern Community Center on Vogelweh.

USAREUR’s cyber security experts also recommended some basic year-round cyber security tips:

• Set strong passwords, and don’t share them with anyone.

• Keep operating systems, browsers and other critical software optimized by installing updates.

• Maintain an open dialogue with family, friends and the community about Internet safety.

• Limit the amount of personal information you post online, and use privacy settings to avoid over-sharing.

• Be cautious about what you receive or read online. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

For more cyber security tips, news and resources highlighting National Cyber Security Awareness Month, or to post your own links and tips on social media sites, visit www.staysafeonline.org/ncsam/get-involved/social-media.