Introduction

As we step into October, we are reminded of the importance of CyberSecurity Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about the critical role cybersecurity plays in our daily lives. As a proud Cybersecurity Awareness Month champion Carbyne’s theme for 2024 is “Secure Our World.” This motto emphasizes the importance of taking simple, daily actions to protect ourselves and our communities from online threats. At Carbyne, we are committed to fostering a culture of cybersecurity awareness and resilience. Below are some key practices we encourage everyone – inside Carbyne as well as externally – to adopt.

Use Strong Passwords and a Password Manager

Creating strong, unique passwords for each of your accounts is one of the most effective ways to protect your personal and professional information. A strong password should be at least 12 characters long and include a mix of letters, numbers, and special characters. To manage your passwords securely, consider using a password manager. This tool can generate and store complex passwords, ensuring you only need to remember one master password.

Turn on Multi Factor Authentication

Multi Factor authentication (MFA) adds an extra layer of security to your accounts by requiring two or more verification methods. This could include something you know (like a password), something you have (like a smartphone), or something you are (like a fingerprint). Enabling MFA significantly reduces the risk of unauthorized access, even if your password is compromised.

Update Your Software

Keeping your software up to date is crucial for protecting your devices from vulnerabilities and exploits. Software updates often include security patches that address known issues. Make it a habit to regularly check for updates and enable automatic updates whenever possible. This applies to your operating system, applications, and even your IoT devices.

Recognize and Report Phishing

Phishing attacks are a common method used by cybercriminals to steal sensitive information. Be cautious of unsolicited emails, messages, or phone calls that ask for personal information or prompt you to click on suspicious links. Always verify the source before responding or clicking. If you suspect a phishing attempt, report it to your IT department or use the reporting tools provided by your email service.

Cybersecurity Awareness for NG911 and PSAPs

As we transition into a next-generation network environment with NG911, our Public Safety Answering Points (PSAPs) are becoming more integrated with various communication networks. This integration enhances situational awareness for dispatchers and emergency responders, but it also introduces new cybersecurity challenges. Below are some additional considerations for NG911 and PSAPs.

Enhance Network Security

With the increased connectivity of NG911 systems, it’s essential to implement robust network security measures. This includes using firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and regular network monitoring to detect and mitigate potential threats.

Conduct Regular Training

Cybersecurity is a shared responsibility, and regular training for all PSAP staff is crucial. Training should cover the latest cybersecurity threats, best practices for data protection, and procedures for responding to security incidents.

Implement Incident Response Plans

Having a well-defined incident response plan is vital for quickly addressing and mitigating the impact of cybersecurity incidents. Ensure that all staff are familiar with the plan and conduct regular drills to test its effectiveness.

Collaborate with Stakeholders

Collaboration with local, state, and federal agencies, as well as other PSAPs, can enhance our collective cybersecurity posture. Sharing information about threats and best practices can help us stay ahead of potential risks.

At Carbyne, we believe that cybersecurity is a shared responsibility. By adopting these practices, we can all contribute to a safer online environment. Let’s work together to “Secure Our World” and make this Cybersecurity Awareness Month a success!

For a free demonstration of how to bring best-in-class cybersecurity to your PSAP, Request a Demo