CSM Recognizes Cybersecurity Awareness Month

This October, the College of Southern Maryland (CSM) is offering practical tips and educational resources to help students, employees, and the community stay safe online as part of Cybersecurity Awareness Month.

Now in its 22nd year, Cybersecurity Awareness Month unites private and public sectors nationwide to highlight the importance of protecting personal information and securing critical systems. This year’s theme Stay Safe Online, emphasizes four essential habits for building digital security:

• Use Strong Passwords
• Turn On Multifactor Authentication
• Update Your Software
• Recognize and Report Phishing

Recognized by the National Cybersecurity Alliance as a Champion of Cybersecurity Awareness Month, CSM is promoting strategies to protect against cyber threats and highlighting the importance of online safety.

Valarie Burks, Vice President of Information Technology with CSM’s Division of Information Management Technology (IMT), says, “cybersecurity is not just an IT issue—it’s a shared responsibility. As we launch Cybersecurity Awareness Month, let’s empower every student, faculty, and staff member to be vigilant, informed, and proactive in protecting our institution’s data and digital landscape. Small actions like reporting a phishing email or discussing cyberattacks you hear on the news can go a long way in promoting a culture of security.”

Through October 18, IMT will be accepting submissions for the Cybersecurity Student Poster Contest as an effort to raise online safety awareness among students. Entries are required to focus on one of the four key behaviors of this year’s theme. Creators of the top three posters following online voting will receive a scholarship sponsored by the CSM Foundation of $500 for first place, $300 for second, and $200 for third.

This is the third year IMT has hosted the poster contest. Previous winners can be found on the cybersecurity awareness webpage.

In addition to the poster contest, CSM will be hosting educational seminars and training throughout the month for employees and students. Discussions will cover topics including common cyberattacks, phishing, vishing, and smishing, and the need for cybersecurity professionals.

Damon Gorham, Deputy Chief Information Officer, says as cyber threats are constantly evolving, it’s important to stay diligent and educated on how to protect yourself.

“Technology is always advancing. As it does, cyberattacks are becoming more complex and sophisticated. At CSM we are committed to providing continual education on how to protect our digital space,” Gorham said. “We’re providing opportunities throughout October to learn more about online threats, empower the community to stay vigilant, and create a safe online environment.”

Resources on Cybersecurity Awareness Month are available on the Cybersecurity Awareness webpage.