Every October, Cyber Security Awareness Month (CSAM) reminds us of the critical importance of protecting our digital lives. This year’s theme, “Secure our World,” highlights that cyber security is not just a concern for tech experts - it’s a collective responsibility that affects us all. Whether you’re an individual, a family, or a business, your actions can help secure our interconnected world.
The Rising Threat Landscape
Australia is a highly connected nation, with businesses and individuals increasingly reliant on digital platforms. However, this connectivity comes with a price. Cyber threats are evolving, with attackers becoming more sophisticated and targeted.
The recent Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC) Notifiable Data Breaches Report: January to June 2024, indicated that Data Breach Notifications are at a three-year high...
Why Cyber Security Matters to You
You might think cyber attacks only target large corporations, but that’s not the case. Small businesses and individuals are often seen as easy targets due to their perceived lack of robust security measures. The consequences of a cyber attack can be devastating, from financial loss to reputational damage. That’s why it’s essential to take proactive steps to secure your digital life.
The Australian Cyber Security Centre (ACSC) reports that one cybercrime is reported every 7 minutes in Australia, costing businesses and individuals millions each year.
5. Actions You Can Do This October
Cyber Security Awareness Month is the perfect time to reassess your cyber security practices. Here are some actions you can take:
1. Enabling multi-factor authentication (MFA)
Lock the front door to your online presence by always enabling MFA.
MFA is having two or more steps to verify your identity before you can log in to your account. It gives you an extra layer of security and makes it harder for someone else to access your online accounts.
2. Update Your Software
Ensure that all your devices and applications are running the latest versions. Software updates often include critical security patches that protect against known vulnerabilities.
3. Strengthen Your Passwords
Use complex passwords that combine letters, numbers, and symbols. Avoid using the same password across multiple accounts and consider using a password manager.
4. Educate Your Team
If you run a business, now is the time to invest in cyber security training for your employees. A well-informed team that can recognise & report on phishing attempts, is your first line of defence against cyber threats.
5. Cyber Risk Discovery
Consider a Cyber Risk Discovery, which entails facilitated sessions with you & your key stakeholders, working together to identify your cyber and information security risks. The outcomes of a Cyber Risk Discovery exercise will inform your cyber security strategy, guiding you on governance and technology options for a comprehensive approach.
Join the Movement to Secure Our World
As we embark on Cyber Security Awareness Month, let’s all commit to making our digital world safer. Whether you’re securing your personal devices, educating your family, or implementing stronger security measures at work, every action counts. Together, we can “Secure our World” and build a resilient digital future for Australia.
For more information and resources on how to protect yourself and your business, visit the Australian Cyber Security Centre.
How Can Diamond IT Support Your Cyber Security Defences?
Diamond IT can help you ensure your technology, policy and staff education programs align with best practice to protect you from the ever-evolving cyber threat landscape. Our Business Technology Consulting team are specialists in improving your internal cyber security.
- Managed IT Support with Cyber Security.
- Cyber Security Awareness Training.
- Cyber and Data Breach Consulting and Forensic Analysis.
- Disaster Recovery (DR) Planning.
If you need advice on how you can ensure your cyber security strategy is fit for purpose our team of cyber security experts are ready to help. Contact our team on 1300 307 907 today.
