In observation of Governor Tony Evers’ proclamation recognizing October as Cybersecurity Awareness Month in the state, the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) is partnering with the Wisconsin Department of Administration (DOA) and Wisconsin Emergency Management (WEM) to share educational materials about how individuals and organizations can protect personal data, private information, and the digital networks and systems we all rely on.
“The theme of this year’s national campaign, ‘Secure Our World,’ emphasizes that as we become more dependent on technology, it is more important than ever to strengthen and adapt our cybersecurity habits,” DATCP said in a release. “Cybersecurity practices can sometimes require some effort, but they are simple, effective, and easy to remember.”
DATCP, DOA, WEM, the National Cybersecurity Alliance, and the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency recommend the following steps to improve online privacy and safety:
- Update software regularly to optimize performance and minimize security risks.
- Create strong, unique passwords and consider using a password manager.
- Enable multi-factor login authentication on your digital accounts.
- Recognize and report phishing attempts.
“Technology is always changing,” said DATCP Secretary Randy Romanski. “That makes Cybersecurity Awareness Month a great opportunity to reassess and adjust our personal practices. Whether they are already experienced users or new to the idea of cybersecurity, Wisconsin consumers, businesses, and government agencies all benefit from improved digital safety measures.”
“We all have a responsibility to protect our information, both online and offline,” said DOA Secretary Kathy Blumenfeld. “DOA is proud to partner with state agencies and our partners statewide to share resources and help people safeguard their digital assets from bad actors.”
“With the increasing threat of malicious cyber activities, it’s important that everyone takes action to remain secure,” said Maj. Gen. Paul Knapp, Wisconsin’s Adjutant General and the Governor’s Chief Cybersecurity Advisor. “Staying safe online is easier when people learn how to protect themselves and their workplace, which also includes knowing what to do if they are the victim of a cyber-crime.”
For additional information and consumer protection resources or to file a complaint, visit DATCP’s Consumer Protection webpage at: ConsumerProtection.wi.gov.
For more information or to report a potential scam, contact DATCP’s Consumer Protection Hotline at 800.422.7128 or email: [email protected].