Four highlights from National Cybersecurity Awareness Month at McMaster University

National Cybersecurity Awareness Month has come to a close. Throughout October, McMaster University’s Information Security Services team led various activities designed to educate and empower the McMaster community on the importance of cybersecurity. 

Here are four key highlights:  

1. LAUNCHED NEW INFORMATION SECURITY TRAINING PROGRAM 

McMaster launched a new comprehensive Information Security Training Program available to all community members on Avenue to Learn. 

Learn more: 

If you enroll in the program by November 30th, 2023, you will be entered for a chance to win a Fitbit Fitness Tracker! Check out the training program webpage for instructions and to stay up to date on future announcements. 

2. RAISED AWARENESS AROUND EMAIL PHISHING  

The team took to campus to quiz students’ knowledge of email phishing and raise awareness around McMaster’s new Phish Bowl website.

Watch the video to see students tackle the challenge and learn how to stay safe online: 

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A post shared by McMaster Information Technology (IT) (@mcmasteru_it)

3. ENGAGED WITH STUDENTS AT IN-PERSON POP-UP EVENT  

The Information Security Services Team brought cybersecurity information and resources directly to students with an in-person pop-up event at the student center. This was an opportunity for students to interact with experts, ask questions, and collect valuable resources for online safety. 

4. REPRESENTED MCMASTER AT SECTOR-WIDE EVENTS

Tracy Dallaire, Director of Information Security Services at McMaster University, joined a panel discussion at the 2023 Ontario Cyber Security Conference to discuss cybersecurity strategy, preparedness and readiness.  

Additionally, Gayleen Gray, AVP and CTO, participated in a panel discussion on The Future of Cybersecurity hosted by the DeGroote School of Business.  

AN ONGOING CULTURE OF CYBERSECURITY AT MCMASTER

As National Cybersecurity Awareness Month draws to a close, McMaster University remains committed to the ongoing education and empowerment of its community in the realm of cybersecurity.

For further updates and ongoing cybersecurity education, be sure to follow McMaster IT on Instagram and Twitter/X, and visit the Associate Vice President and Chief Technology Officer’s website.

Stay cyber safe, McMaster!