Tag: cybersafe GW

November and December Cyber Talk Schedule

Please follow the links below to view event details including description and registration links.

Cyber Talk – Phishing / Social Engineering @ GW

• November 19, 2025 at 2:00 PM
• December 18, 2025 at 10:00 AM

Holiday Deals or Steals? Avoiding Online Shopping Scams (externally provided webinar) November 19, 2025 at 2:00 PM

Cyber Talk – CyberSafe Travel

• November 24, 2025 at 1:00 PM
• December 4, 2025 at 10:00 AM
• December 4, 2025 at 2:00 PM

Cyber Talk – Creating and Managing Secure Passwords December 11, 2025 at 11:00 AM

Cyber Talk – Lock It Down – Mobile Device Security December 16, 2025 at 1:00 PM

We hope to see you at one or more of our events.

CyberSafe Tips for GW's extended community - #SecuretheGenerations

Please checkout our Cyber Talks and other events throughout Cybersecurity Month!  

Take a look at the tips for your own and other generations - each tip sheet has generalizations (admittedly) as well as 'Fun Facts'. Most importantly, each tip sheet highlights risks faced, common security threats, and recommendations. Supporting our shared role in creating a CyberSafe GW there are suggestions on how each generation can support the other generations in being more secure.

• Children / Pre-Teen (PDF file)
• Teens / Young Adults (PDF file)
• Gen X / Millennials (PDF file)
• Seniors / Baby Boomers (PDF file)

The attached 1-pager highlights items from each of the detailed tip sheets above. These materials were provided by the SANS Institute 

National Cybersecurity Alliance Post: Meet the Core 4+: Cybersecurity Practices

(7 MIN READ)

1. Use long, unique, and complex passwords (and a password manager!) 

Your passwords are the first line of defense between a criminal and your sensitive information.   Here’s how to have amazing passwords: 

• Every password must be long, unique, and complex. Nowadays, every password should be at least 16 characters long, which significantly overwhelms password-cracking programs. Use a random mix of letters, numbers, and symbols. And every account needs a unique password.      
• Don't reuse passwords! Every account needs a unique password. Unfortunately, making little changes, like adding numbers or switching out an S with a $, doesn't count as a unique password. 
• Use a password manager to store and generate strong passwords. If you're wondering how to manage so many unique, long passwords, the answer is a password manager! There are many free, secure options. Password managers are the safest way to store your passwords. If you prefer to keep a password notebook, treat it like cash. 

2. Enable multifactor authentication (MFA)

Multifactor authentication (sometimes called 2FA) adds an extra security layer by requiring something more than just your password to log in. Think of it as using two locks on your digital door instead of only one. This could be:

• A one-time code sent to your phone
• A biometric scan like a fingerprint scan or FaceID
• A physical security key

Enable MFA on your accounts – especially email, banking, and social media. It’s a simple way to supercharge the security on your accounts. Also, never share MFA codes with anyone – this includes not sharing them over the phone, through texts, or via email. Only scammers will ask for MFA codes.

3. Keep software updated 

Software updates don’t just bring new features. They often fix security flaws that criminals exploit.   It usually takes a few minutes, but updates are worth it. Here are some tips:

• Turn on automatic updates when possible for your devices and apps – you can usually find these options in your Settings menu. 
• Install updates promptly for your operating systems, browsers, antivirus tools, and apps.
• Don't click Remind Me Later – the security is worth it. 
• Remember your phones, smartwatches, and tablets are computers – keep these devices updated as well!

4. Watch out for phishing and scams 

Phishing remains the most common online threat. Criminals send fake emails, texts, or social media messages to trick you into revealing sensitive information or clicking malicious links. These messages aim to get you to click before you think by playing your emotions. Scammers will even call you! Here's how to look out for phishing and scams: 

• Be highly skeptical of unexpected messages, especially those urging immediate action or asking for personal details.
• Phishing emails can light up positive emotions ("You've won our sweepstakes!") or negative ones ("You've been hacked!"). 
• Don’t click suspicious links or download unexpected attachments. 
• Report phishing attempts to your email provider, social media platform, or IT department. 
• If you're unsure if a message is legit, ask a friend, coworker, or family member. A second set of eyes can be invaluable in spotting scams.  
• The full online article includes 6 additional tips

Content Originally Published July 22, 2025 by: https://www.staysafeonline.org/

Huzzah - October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month

GW Information Technology (GW IT) invites you to celebrate Cybersecurity Awareness Month with us and the National Cybersecurity Alliance (NCA). This year’s theme, CyberSafe GW, highlights the shared responsibility we all have to protect ourselves and the university from online threats. Small actions like using unique and strong passwords, updating software, and staying vigilant can make a difference.

During the month of October, GW IT will host a series of virtual and in-person events for the GW community at various technical levels. Cybersecurity Awareness Month events will provide you with valuable insights and skills to implement best practices, reducing the risk of data breaches and cyberattacks. In person events will feature question and answer sessions, giveaways, and games. There are also several external events, including games, being sponsored by NCA. Together, we can build a safer, more secure digital community.

A full Listing of our events is on our Event Details page.  Highlighted events include:

• National Cybersecurity Alliance - Level Up you Cyber Game - interactive sessions throughout October
• Cyber Talk – Password Managers 411 (GW IT event) 10/6
• Cyber Talk – CyberSafe Travel (GW IT event) 10/7
• CyberSafe GW – Information Table – Mount Vernon Campus – West Hall 10/14
• Privacy and the use of Artificial Intelligence (GW Privacy event) 10/16
• CyberSafe GW – Information Table – Foggy Bottom Campus – USC Lobby 10/16
• Cyber Talk – CyberSafe@Home (GW IT event) 10/17
• Cyber Talk – Understanding Social Engineering Methods (GW IT event) 10/20
• Protecting Personal Data while Working Remotely (GW IT & GW Privacy event) 10/23
• CyberSafe GW – Information Table – VSTC (GW Community) 10/23

We hope to see you at one or more of our events.

https://www.staysafeonline.org/