October is National Cybersecurity Awareness Month

Cybersecurity is a shared responsibility. The accounts, devices and information we use every day can be targeted through phishing, social engineering, account theft and other cyber threats. Throughout October, the Division of Information Technology will recognize Cybersecurity Awareness Month with resources and activities designed to help the Seton Hall community stay secure.

Each week will focus on a different aspect of cybersecurity, from protecting University data to recognizing social engineering and safeguarding your digital identity. The IT Security team will also be in the University Center Monday through Thursday from 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., September 28 through October 29, with interactive cybersecurity activities and opportunities to test your knowledge.

Cybersecurity Awareness Month Topics

Digital network of interconnected data points.

Week 1: Data Security and Secure Sharing

University information should be protected wherever it is stored, accessed or shared. Before sending files or granting access, consider what information is included and whether everyone receiving it should be able to view it.

Store University files in approved services such as OneDrive and SharePoint.
Review sharing permissions before sending links to documents or folders.
Share sensitive information only with people who need access.
Avoid storing University data in personal accounts or unapproved services.
Check existing permissions periodically and remove access that is no longer needed.

Secure Your Data

Week 2: Duo Two-Factor Authentication

Duo adds an important layer of protection to University accounts. Even if a password is compromised, two-factor authentication can help prevent someone else from signing in.

Review the information in every Duo authentication request before approving it.
Approve a request only when you initiated the sign-in.
Deny unexpected Duo pushes or calls.
Never approve repeated requests simply to make the notifications stop.
Contact the Technology Service Desk if you receive authentication requests you did not initiate.

Secure Your Account

Week 3: Phishing and Social Engineering

Cybercriminals do not always rely on technical attacks. Social engineering uses deception to persuade people to reveal information, approve access or take an action that benefits the attacker.

Be cautious of unexpected emails, text messages, phone calls and meeting invitations.
Examine the sender's complete address rather than relying on the displayed name.
Be wary of requests that create unusual urgency or pressure you to act quickly.
Check the true destination of links before opening them.
Independently verify unusual requests, especially those involving credentials, payments or sensitive information.

Secure Your Information

Week 4: Protect Your Digital Identity

Your digital identity extends beyond your University account. Information shared through social media, online profiles and other services can provide cybercriminals with details they can use to impersonate you or create more convincing scams.

Review the privacy settings on your social media accounts.
Consider how much personal information you make publicly available.
Avoid posting information that could reveal answers to security questions or other account details.
Be cautious when accepting connection or follow requests from people you do not know.
Use unique passwords and multifactor authentication for personal accounts whenever available.

Secure Your Digital Identity

Woman holding a credit card in front of an open laptop beside a jack-o’-lantern.

Week 5: Cyber Trick or Treat

Halloween may be filled with tricks, but online scams do not have to catch you off guard. As Cybersecurity Awareness Month concludes, put what you have learned into practice when shopping, checking email and using your accounts online.

Be skeptical of unexpected offers, giveaways and discounts that seem too good to be true.
Visit retailers' official websites rather than following links in unsolicited messages.
Use secure payment methods that provide fraud protection when shopping online.
Watch for fake delivery notifications, account alerts and other messages designed to prompt an immediate response.
Check financial accounts regularly for transactions you do not recognize.

Secure Your Online Activity

Cybersecurity Programs and Resources at Seton Hall University

Seton Hall University is proud to offer a wealth of academic programs, events and resources to prepare students for a successful career in cybersecurity and to further strengthen this in-demand skillset among experienced professionals.