October is National Cyber Security Awareness
Month
IEMA joins nationwide effort to keep people safe
online
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[October 17, 2014]
SPRINGFIELD
– Thanks to smartphones, tablets and other mobile devices, the
Internet is almost always at our fingertips. Combined with computers
and laptops in homes, schools and workplaces, it’s easy to see how
Americans reportedly spend an average of 23 hours per week online.
While the Internet provides almost limitless opportunities, it also
creates risks that can range from mere inconveniences to serious
threats such as identity theft, harassment and child endangerment. |
Throughout October, the Illinois Emergency Management Agency (IEMA)
is joining with local emergency management agencies to promote
National Cyber Security Awareness Month, a nationwide effort to
increase awareness of online risks and what people can do to prevent
problems.
“The Internet is part of our everyday life,” said IEMA Director
Jonathon Monken. “Mobile devices make it easier than ever to shop,
search for information, communicate with friends and family and
more. It’s critical that everyone who uses the Internet understands
the potential risks and takes steps to protect their personal
information.”
![](http://archives.lincolndailynews.com/2014/Oct/14/images/ads/current/charrons_bch041713.png)
Monken said basic tips for staying safe on the Internet include:
- Set strong passwords and don’t share them with anyone.
- Keep your operating system, browser and other critical
software optimized by installing updates.
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![](http://archives.lincolndailynews.com/2014/Oct/14/images/ads/current/coyne_lda2_071113.png)
- Maintain an open dialogue with your family, friends and
community about Internet safety.
- Limit the amount of personal information you post online and
use privacy settings to avoid sharing information widely.
- Be cautious about what you receive or read online. If it
sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
For more online safety tips, visit the Ready Illinois website
at www.Ready.Illinois.gov. In addition to cyber safety
information, the website is a one-stop location for information
about disaster preparedness, what to do during a disaster and
steps for recovery after a disaster.
[Illinois Emergency Management
Agency] |