Maine DWP Update: Cybersecurity Awareness Month - Week 1

 

Cybersecurity Awareness Month
Week 1

 

Good morning, October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month!  The Maine CDC Drinking Water Program (DWP) is excited to participate in this global effort to bolster digital security practices alongside MaineIT, the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), and the National Cybersecurity Alliance (NCA).  Each week, we’ll highlight a key cybersecurity practice and message; credit and thanks to MaineIT for the message and materials.

This week, we're focusing on "Using Strong Passwords."  Here’s what you need to know:

Why Strong Passwords Matter:

   •  Your First Line of Defense:
      Strong passwords protect against hacking, identity theft, and unauthorized access.

   •  Cybercriminals Target Weak Passwords:
      A complex password makes it harder for cybercriminals to exploit your accounts.

What Makes a Strong Password:

   •  Length and Complexity:
      Use a mix of upper and lower-case letters, numbers, and special characters.

   •  Uniqueness:
      Create different passwords for each account to minimize risk.

Action Steps:

   1.  Update Your Passwords: 
        Ensure all your passwords are long, unique, and complex.

   2.  Change Passwords Regularly: 
        Regular updates help maintain security.

Learn More:

   •  Check Out This Week’s Newsletter: 
      Attached is your guide on using strong passwords.

• Cybersecurity_Awareness_Month_Week-1_Strong_Passwords_Newsletter.pdf

 

Questions?  Feel free to reach out at security.training@maine.gov.

 

Stay secure and let’s continue strengthening our defenses!

Best regards,
Joshua Laufer
Cybersecurity and Resilience Coordinator
Maine CDC Drinking Water Program
Maine Department of Health and Human Services