In his weekly message, Gov. Jack Markell talked about the importance of internet safety and security as the state marks Cyber Security Awareness Month during October.
"By recognizing that we all have a vital role in identifying, protecting, and responding to cyber threats, we can promote security and privacy, protect our economy, and make our children safer," said Markell.
Markell says cybersecurity is critical to the health of a strong economy as threats from hackers attempting to steal sensitive information come on a daily basis. Markell says those threats can disrupt critical infrastructure, including the power grid and hospital record-keeping systems.
And Markell notes individuals can play a role by protecting themselves.
"And this month is an opportunity to remind each other that the most effective cybersecurity steps can often be the simplest, like using strong passwords and avoiding flash drives when you are unsure about their contents," said Markell.
Markell also pointed out young people in the First State are vulnerable to cyber-bullying and predators.
He adds that the state Department of Technology and Information is providing education materials to help keep Delawareans of all ages safe from cyber threats.
Full text of Gov. Markell's weekly message:
The Internet has transformed every aspect of our society, creating tremendous new opportunities for our people, fueling economic growth, and providing a wonderful resource for our students. But the growing importance of online activity also means we must increase our focus on safety and security.
It’s why we’ve recognized October as Cyber Security Awareness Month for our state. It’s an effort to bring together government and industry to ensure we all use safe practices online. In Delaware, we face millions of cyber threats each day—hackers trying to pry into our system to gain access to personal information about our residents, businesses’ intellectual property, and other sensitive data. And our most critical infrastructure, from the power grid to our hospitals’ record-keeping systems rely on secure networks.
The FBI ranks cybercrime as one of the top threats to U.S. national security. This month is an opportunity to remind each other that the most effective cybersecurity steps can often be the simplest, like using strong passwords and avoiding flash drives when you are unsure about their contents. Our youth are also vulnerable to another type of cyber threat. Earlier this month we visited with 300 fourth grade students, teachers and staff at Lake Forest Central Elementary school to emphasize the importance of protecting our youth against cyberbullying and online predators. Our Department of Technology and Information is providing education and awareness materials to meet the needs of all Delawareans from students to seniors to small businesses. And I encourage you to visit digiknow.delaware.gov to learn more.
By recognizing that we all have a vital role in identifying, protecting, and responding to cyber threats, we can promote security and privacy, protect our economy, and make our children safer. And that will keep Delaware moving forward.
