Cyber Confidence in Defence

Cyber Awareness Month

October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month, which is dedicated to promoting safe online habits as well as protecting personal and company data. It's a reminder that everyone plays a role in keeping the digital world secure.

Here are a few areas to be extra vigilant with...

Sharing online

Are you sharing too much online? Do you ensure files are shared and stored securely? Do you know what to do if you think your device has been compromised? Each one may seem small, but they open the door to serious risks that could impact operations.

Think, could it have been me? Malicious actors are ready to jump on the slightest misstep. Stay vigilant, stay alert and stay secure.

Stay social media savvy

In today’s connected world, it's easy to forget how much we share online. But oversharing on social media can put you and your colleagues at risk, not just at work, but at home too. Be mindful of what, where, and how much you post. Photos, locations, even tiny details can be pieced together into a bigger picture.

Always check your privacy settings, consider the information you post publicly and think before you share. Your vigilance can save lives.

What is spear phishing?

Spear phishing, like all forms of phishing, is designed to trick us into revealing sensitive information, but spear phishing attacks aren’t random. They are targeted and designed to look and sound real. That could be in the form of a convincing professional email from someone we know or a trusted voice on the phone.

Be cautious and never share sensitive information without verifying the request. Check through trusted channels such as Microsoft Teams, a secure phone line or even in person and don’t let urgency override caution because once the information is gone, you can’t get it back. Protect your data and protect our mission.

Protecting sensitive information

Protecting sensitive information starts with you.  A single file, saved in the wrong place, can mean it’s seen by people who shouldn’t have access. Are you being careful when you send or store data?

Always check classification labels, ensure files are labelled and stored in secure locations with the right access controls. Protect our data, lives depend on it.

Protect your device

Do you know what to do if you think your device is compromised? Unusual behaviour on your laptop like strange files opening by themselves, the cursor occasionally moving by itself and performance slowing to almost a stop are more obvious signs that could mean someone already has access. But remember, just because nothing seems to have happened after clicking a suspicious link doesn’t mean your device is safe.

Shutting the device down and hoping the problem disappears only makes things worse. Your vigilance is our defence. Report suspicious activity immediately by filling out a Security Incident Reporting Form or contact your local Defensive Cyber Protection Team for advice.

For more information, visit the MOD Security & Resilience portal or Cyber Confident Defnet page or get in touch with the team at [email protected] or by clicking the button below!

Remember, the front line is you!