Tips for families to stay safe online

This month's focus for Cyber360 is navigating cybersecurity as a family. In the digital age, where every household gadget can connect to the internet, cybersecurity is no longer just an individual concern—it's a family affair. From toddlers who can navigate a tablet before they can walk to grandparents who've embraced video calling with gusto, everyone's online. This interconnectedness, while bringing families closer, also opens up new vulnerabilities to cyber-attacks. Here’s how families can navigate the complex web of digital safety together.

Understanding the challenge

Cybersecurity isn’t just about blocking access to harmful websites; it’s about protecting against identity theft, cyberbullying, and more. The challenge lies in implementing effective controls without infringing on privacy or trust, especially as kids often find ways around parental restrictions.

A family-centric approach

Effective cybersecurity requires a team effort:

• Education over restriction: Hold regular discussions on the importance of online safety to create a culture of awareness and shared responsibility.
• Adapt and customize: Recognize that a one-size-fits-all approach doesn’t work. Tailor your cybersecurity strategies to fit your family’s needs.
• Include everyone: From the youngest to the oldest, ensure each family member knows the basics of online safety and phishing scams.

Practical steps to take:

• Invest in security software: A comprehensive security suite can protect against most common threats.
• Secure your Wi-Fi: Use strong passwords for your home network and consider a guest network for visitors.
• Stay updated: Keep devices and software up to date with the latest security patches.

Cybersecurity is a collective endeavor that necessitates open dialogue, education, and cooperation among all family members. By fostering an environment of shared responsibility and staying informed about potential threats, families can enjoy the benefits of the digital age securely and confidently.

About Cyber360

Cybersecurity is more important than ever in today's world of digital and technological advancements. To meet this critical need, the Information Security and Privacy Group is excited to present the Cyber360 event series. This series, running from April through October 2024, is designed to cover a wide range of cybersecurity topics; each month focusing on a different theme to ensure participants gain a comprehensive understanding of digital safety. Learn more about Cyber360 here.

Get ready for CyberWorks!

Remember to join us at the CyberWorks event on October 15th, 2024! This event will be a fantastic opportunity for families to learn more about cybersecurity, engage with experts, and discover the latest trends and strategies to keep their digital homes safe. Join our CMS Slack channel #CyberWorks2024 for updates.

More resources

For a complete overview of training opportunities and best practices for keeping data and systems safe at CMS, check out the CMS Information Security and Privacy Training Handbook.