Ghosts, Ghouls, and Bad Actors: October is National Cybersecurity Awareness Month

  Story by Kallyn Zaner

Each October, Oregon State University celebrates National Cybersecurity Awareness Month, highlighting the importance of digital safety through education, engagement, and preventative initiatives that strengthen the community’s defense against cyber attacks. Under the leadership of David McMorries, Chief Information Security Officer, and Marjorie McLagan, Deputy Chief Information Security Officer, the university hosts events, information sessions, and exciting campaigns to bring awareness to the importance of safe digital practices. Their efforts not only showcase the university’s ongoing commitment to cybersecurity, but also provide students, faculty, and staff with tools to stay safe online.

For the past seven years, University Information & Technology’s Office of Information Security (OIS) has made it their mission to ensure this month is memorable, educational, and effective for the entirety of the OSU community. “It’s about building a culture of awareness,” McMorries said. “When someone recognizes a phishing email or reports a scam, that’s a win for everyone. The more people know what to look for, the safer we all are.”

OSU’s first celebration of National Cybersecurity Awareness Month took place in October 2019. The university hosted a one-day event, featuring guest speaker Lieutenant General Vincent Stewart, a major leader in national security and cybersecurity. That event set the tone for future celebrations with expert insights, hands-on learning activities, and community collaborations. Over the years, McMorries and his team have embraced the opportunity to talk with students, staff, and faculty every fall. “I love interacting with the OSU community,” McMorries shared. “People want practical tips and tricks to protect themselves, and it’s rewarding to help them feel confident about navigating the online world.”

This October is packed with many opportunities to engage and learn while still having fun, boosting cybersecurity knowledge and safety. At the annual OSU Community Fair, security experts will be present to provide practical tips for protecting data and digital safety. An OSU Cyber Carnival will be held again this year on October 9, from 10:30 am to 1:30 pm in the MU Quad across from the Women's Building. This event includes interactive booths, educational games, and giveaways that turn cybersecurity into an exciting adventure. OIS will also be visiting OSU-Cascades and the Hatfield Marine Science Center (HMSC) to ensure cybersecurity awareness is represented beyond Corvallis. An FYI Friday Session will be hosted on October 10, at noon. “Info Security: What Goes Bump in the Cyber Night” aims to educate on current online threats and vulnerabilities, along with how to handle them effectively. Lastly, a keynote presentation, “Code, Courage, and Cyber Defense: Navigating an Evolving Cyber Landscape,” will take place on October 17. The event’s speaker, Shawnee Delaney, will present on her background and career highlights as a cybersecurity operative.

Each fall term brings new students, faculty and staff to OSU, making October a perfect time to refresh the community's cybersecurity awareness. “It’s good to be reminded,” McMorries said. “Technology and threats evolve quickly, and these events help keep security top of mind.” Whether it's through the Cyber Carnival, attending the keynote, joining the FYI Friday talk, or just reviewing the process of handling suspicious emails, this October is a perfect chance to heighten your cyber security awareness, and ensure the safety of the OSU Community as a whole.