October 05, 2023

October is National Cybersecurity Awareness Month

October is National Cybersecurity Awareness Month, which serves to remind everyone that knowledge of cyber threats, awareness of risks and caution around connectivity is everyone’s responsibility. Although computing devices, phones, automobiles, appliances in the home and technology intwined activities come with inherent risk, the biggest and easiest threat to cyber security is the human component. 

The Office of Information Technology wants to remind the campus community that simple steps including being cautious when opening emails, vetting content and reporting links using the “Report Message” button on the top right of the Outlook menu bar help keep SIU faculty, staff, students and university assets protected. 

The SIU campus community is reminded that mandatory cybersecurity training for faculty and staff, available in D2L, provides educational tips on how to avoid common mistakes that leave SIU vulnerable. The deadline to complete the training is Oct. 20. 

In addition, the federal Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency is providing additional resources this month with a variety of voluntary meetings and activities. Registration is open for the following virtual programs: 

Behavioral Science of Cyberattacks (45 minutes) 

Level Up Your Cyber Game (45 minutes) 

The experts in SalukiTech are available to answer questions related to cybersecurity or assist with any technical difficulties. Contact SalukiTech at 618-453-5155 or salukitech@siu.edu.