October is National Cyber Security Awareness
Month
Governor Rauner issues proclamation encouraging
Illinoisans to stay safe online
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[October 25, 2016]
SPRINGFIELD – Reports on computer hacks
and online information breaches are in the news almost daily. While
the news stories come and go, the effects of having your personal
information compromised can be long-lasting. To highlight the
importance of understanding and avoiding cyber risks, Governor Bruce
Rauner has proclaimed October National Cyber Security Awareness
Month in Illinois. |
"Cybercrime is a very real threat across the globe," Gov. Rauner
said. "Here in Illinois, our new Department of Innovation and
Technology is spearheading efforts to keep the state’s networks safe
from the continual barrage of attacks. It’s equally important for
individuals, schools, businesses, organizations and others to work
to keep their online information secure."
"Cybersecurity threat impacts all of us, and is truly a citizen
safety issue," said Hardik Bhatt, State CIO and Secretary Designate
of the Department of Innovation & Technology (DoIT). "Through
Governor Rauner’s leadership, the state of Illinois is securing our
technology infrastructure through partnerships with different levels
of government and critical infrastructure partners. For a truly
cyber-secure Illinois, we believe that the most important
cybersecurity partnership for us is with our citizens."
During the month, the Illinois Emergency Management Agency (IEMA)
and local emergency management agencies are joining to increase
awareness of online risks and provide tips on what people can do to
prevent problems.
![](http://archives.lincolndailynews.com/2016/Oct/01/images/ads/current/pest-control-SDA-Termites-2015.png) "The Internet touches nearly every aspect of our daily lives," said
IEMA Director James K. Joseph. "From computers and laptops at homes,
schools and workplaces to smartphones and tablets, the ability to
instantly connect with information and people around the world
offers countless opportunities for everyone, including criminals.
Fortunately, there are steps everyone can take to stay safe online."
Joseph said the Stop. Think. Connect. Campaign is a global safety
awareness campaign to help people stay safe online. The campaign
offers many tips and information for online security, including:
- Keep security software current to defend against viruses,
malware and other online threats.
- Protect all devices that connect to the Internet, including
computers, smartphones, gaming systems and other web-enabled
devices.
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- Use security software to scan USBs and other external
devices for viruses and malware.
- Make passwords long and strong by combine capital and
lowercase letters with number and symbols.
- Have unique passwords for every account.
- Avoid suspicious links in emails, tweets, posts and
online advertising, which can be the way for cybercriminals
to access your computer.
- When banking and shopping online, check to be sure the
site is security enabled (https://
means the site takes extra measures to secure your
information).
- Protect your work, music, photos and other digital
information by making an electronic copy and storing it
safely.
More information about cyber security is available at
www.Ready.Illinois.gov.
[Illinois Emergency Management
Agency/Illinois Department of Innovation & Technology]
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