11 May 2010
The 2010 National Cyber Security Awareness Week is on from 6-11 June 2010.
National Cyber Security Awareness Week is an Australian Government initiative designed to prompt Australian internet users to improve their online security so that they can continue to interact with confidence online.
Australians are increasingly accessing the internet in a variety of ways to undertake a more complex range of transactions. As the number of people using mobile phones, Wi-Fi, computer game consoles and other devices to access the internet increases, the need for better cyber security across these devices becomes increasingly important.
For example, The 2009 Australian Mobile Phone Lifestyle Index reports that 21% of respondents said they visit websites on their mobile phone at least once a day. 25 % of respondents reported using their mobile phone for banking.
The Australian Government has established a range of initiatives to raise the awareness of Australian internet users about the importance of cyber security and the simple steps they can take to protect their personal and !nancial information online.
One of these initiatives is the annual National Cyber Security Awareness Week - a culmination of year round activities to raise awareness of cyber security. National Cyber Security Awareness Week is an Australian Government initiative, shaped with advice from a steering group of eminent experts.
It is implemented in partnership with State and Territory Governments and a broad range of industry, community and consumer groups. This year, partners will promote the cyber security message through websites, retail stores and seminars in cities and regional centres all over Australia.
The highlights of this year’s calendar of events include:
- launch of the Week, Melbourne, Sunday 6 June
- events on each day of the Week and in all States and Territories, delivered in partnership with
stakeholders
- Over the Horizon visioning forum, Sydney, Friday 11 June
- a series of brie!ngs for business about cyber security risks and protective measures
- seminars for the growing number of seniors online
- customer promotions with major national retailers
- workshops and information sessions for small business owners, young people and families
Australians are being advised to take six simple steps to improve their online security at home and at work:
- Install security software and update it regularly.
- Turn on automatic updates so that all your software receives the latest !xes.
- Get a stronger password and change it at least twice a year.
- Stop and think before you click on links or attachments.
- Stop and think before you share any personal or !nancial information - about yourself, your
friends or family.
- Know what your children are doing online. Make sure they know how to stay safe and encourage them to report anything suspicious.
Visit www.staysmartonline.gov.au for further advice and information