Be Prepared, Not Scared: National Cybersecurity Preparedness Month is September

You don’t think a cybersecurity incident will happen to you until it does!

September is National Preparedness Month, a reminder to families and businesses to take time to look at disaster and emergency planning. This year’s theme is Be Prepared, Not Scared.

Ransomware infection, identity theft or data breaches don’t just happen to other people or businesses. Victims of these crimes are often unprepared and don’t have a plan or controls in the event of a cyber-related threat.

Cybersecurity preparedness can minimize the impact an event has on an individual or organization.

The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) encourages individuals and organizations to develop and share cyber emergency response plans that include guidance on protection and controls like keeping software and operating systems updated, regularly backing up files, keeping encrypted copies of important documents offline, and routinely running anti-virus scans.

CISA offers tips for resources on preparing for, and responding to, unexpected cyber-related events:
•    Protecting Against Ransomware
•    Preventing and Responding to Identity Theft
•    Handling Destructive Malware
•    Protecting Against Malicious Code

Learn more about National Preparedness Month at Ready.gov/September and see Ready.gov/Cybersecurity