​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​As we become more reliant upon technology for our daily tasks, it is important to safeguard our information and protect our network systems from vulnerabilities. Cybersecurity is the art of defending unauthorized access to data, devices, networks, and information and ensuring the confidentiality, integrity, and availability o​f information. Many pieces of our daily lives are stored on a connected device. Valuable information such as communication, financial, and medical information must be protected. Knowing how to secure your information and protect it from unwanted access is key to keeping your data safe. As secure as we keep our homes, cars, and other valuables, we should provide the same safeguards to our digital information. 

The Georgia Department of Education is committed to educating educators, parents, and students about cybersecurity. Cybersecurity is everyone’s responsibility! 

Cybersecurity Awareness Month - October 

Each October CISA, Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency, along with NCSA, National Cybersecurity Alliance, promote cybersecurity awareness with best practices in various areas of cybersecurity. For 2021, the theme is “Do Your Part. #Be Cyber Smart.” Each week, the Department will provide content from CISA and other valuable sources to assist in promoting the theme for this year’s Cybersecurity Awareness Month.

• Week 1 - October 4-8: Be Cyber Smart

• Week 2 - October 11-15: Phight the Phish! 

• Week 3 - October 18-: Explore. Experience. Share. – Cybersecurity Career Awareness Week​
  

• Week​ 4 - October 25: Cybersecurity First 
  

Helpful Tips for Everyone 

In an effort to avoid being a victim of a cybercrime, the following approaches are a good start to protecting your personal information and network system.

• Be alert to possible phishing attempts when interacting online

• Use strong passwords and multi-factor authentication

• Keep operating systems and software up to date

• Use antivirus software

• Utilize a firewall 

For additional cybersecurity practices, Check out CISA’s tip sheets for Cybersecurity Awareness Month 2021