The White House has designated October as National Cybersecurity Awareness Month (NCSAM) in which the Department of Energy (DOE) joins the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and others across the country to support this initiative and amplify the “Stop. Think. Connect.” message.

Protecting the privacy and civil liberties of DOE employees and the information produced at DOE is a task I lead with relentless dedication. Educating employees on how they can help is a critical element of our cyber defense.  Below are some things to help keep you safe in cyber space:

• Set strong passwords, and don’t share them with anyone.
• Keep your operating system, browser, and other critical software optimized and secure by installing updates.
• Maintain an open dialogue with your family, friends, and community about Internet safety.
• Limit the amount of personal information you post online, and use privacy settings.
• Be cautious about what you receive or read online; if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

The 2014 DOE NCSAM theme is Securing the Internet of Things.  This theme focuses on the multi-faceted use of the Internet and how it has become a lifestyle mainstay for many people. The expanding role of the Internet in our daily lives requires everyone to share the responsibility for cyberspace security by following secure practices for all their personal and professional technology. 

You have the opportunity to join in cybersecurity awareness efforts across the country.  If you, your family, or your organization are interested in more information about cybersecurity, please visit: www.dhs.gov/stopthinkconnect.