On October 1, 2010 President Barack Obama declared October National Cyber Security Awareness Month (NCSAM). He recognized the importance of America's digital infrastructure and the crucial role all Americans play in helping to secure the networks we utilize daily. StaySafeOnline.org, powered by the National Cyber Security Alliance, announced the 2015 NCSAM theme - Our Shared Responsibility.
The Department of Homeland Security has offered general tips for all internet users to actively keep their personal information safe:
- Set strong passwords and don’t share them with anyone.
- Keep your operating system, browser, and other critical software optimized by installing updates.
- Maintain an open dialogue with your family, friends, and community about Internet safety.
- Limit the amount of personal information you post online and use privacy settings to avoid sharing information widely.
- Be cautious about what you receive or read online—if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
DHS went further to identify specific tips for particular demographics, including tips for undergraduate college and university students.

Jones & Bartlett Learning publishes definitive texts and resources for STEM education, including computer science and information security. Learn more about two best-sellers designed for undergraduate courses in computer forensics and information security:
- Computer Forensics: Cybercriminals, Law, and Evidence, Second Edition by Marie-Helen Maras of John Jay College of Criminal Justice.
- Elementary Information Security, Second Edition by Richard E. Smith, operator of Cryptosmith, a computer security consulting practice, and instructor at the University of St. Thomas in Minnesota.
Learn more about our resources for STEM education, visit http://www.jblearning.com/