DES MOINES -- Governor Kim Reynolds signed a proclamation declaring October is Cybersecurity Awareness month. The proclamation seeks to increase awareness of good cyber hygiene practices among all Iowans. Since 2004 Cybersecurity Awareness Month has helped individuals protect themselves online as threats to technology and confidential data become more commonplace.

“We know from recent cyber attacks such as the Colonial pipeline attack in 2021, that basic good cyber practices can prevent a cyber attack,” said Dr. Matt Behrens, Chief Information Officer for the State of Iowa. “This proclamation will go a long way in illustrating to Iowans the very real need for strong passwords, updated software, and training for everyone on how to be cyber smart.” 

The Department of Management Office of the Chief Information Officer is the division tasked with managing cybersecurity awareness events and working with local and federal partners to promote the “be cyber safe” program. The National Cybersecurity Alliance and Cybersecurity Infrastructure Agency work at the federal level to create publicly available resources and promote public and private partnerships around cybersecurity awareness month. 

For more information on Cybersecurity Awareness Month you can visit www.Staysafeonline.com or check out the #becybersafe hashtag on your favorite social media. Click here for a digital version of the Cybersecurity Awareness Month proclamation.