The internet plays a role in much of daily life at school, at work and at home. October was National Cyber Security Awareness Month with an aim to increase Americans’ understanding of basic cybersecurity practices to stay safe online and the role each of us plays in keeping cyberspace safe and secure.
The Department of Homeland Security highlighted ways cybersecurity impacts Americans including their use of personal technologies and in their workplaces as well as at school. The following tips were offered to stay safe online:
- Set strong passwords and don’t share them with anyone;
- Keep your operating system, browser, and other critical software optimized by installing updates;
- 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; and
- Visit http://www.dhs.gov/StopThinkConnect to learn more about how you can help strengthen America’s cybersecurity.
For more information on school security and support services, contact Maine DOE’s Transportation and Facilities Administrator Pat Hinckley at email@example.com or call 624-6886.