For the month of November, the Central Bank of Eswatini joins the Ministry of ICT, ESCCOM and other partners in commemorating National Cybersecurity Awareness Month(NCSAM).The theme for 2019 is,“BECYBER AWARE, BE CYBER SMART.”

The objective of the initiative is to promote the nation’s awareness on cybersecurity by increasing the level of understanding of cyber threats, simple mitigation and empowerthenationtobemoresecureonline. Wemaynotrealizeitinitially,butas we enjoy the convenience that the internet offers, we inevitably cultivate a digital footprint that could potentially be exploited by cybercriminals. That is why it is important that everyone plays a part in ensuring that their online lives are kept safe and secure. Hence, National Cybersecurity Awareness Month.

WHAT IS CYBERSECURITY?

Cybersecurity is the practice of protecting systems, networks, and programs from digital attacks. The cyberattacks are typically aimed at accessing, changing, or destroying sensitive information; extorting money from users; or interrupting normal business processes.

TYPES OF CYBERSECURITY THREATS

PHISHING

The practice of sending fraudulent emails that resemble emails from reputable sources. The aim is to steal sensitive data like credit card numbers and login information. It is the most common type of cyber-attack.

RANDSOMWARE
A type of malicious software. It is designed to extort money by blocking access to files or the computer system until the ransom is paid. Paying the ransom does not guarantee that the files will be recovered or the system restored.

MALWARE
A type of software designed to gain unauthorized access or to cause damage to a computer.

SOCIALENGINEERING

A tactic that adversaries use to trick you into revealing sensitive information. They can solicit a monetary payment or gain access to your confidential data.

WHAT IS BEING CYBER AWARE?

This means knowing the online risks that are out there. The internet has become part and parcel of our everyday lives. The first step in combating cybercrime is knowing and understanding the cybersecurity risks that are out there. Before you use the Internet, take time to understand the risks and learn how to spot potential problems.

WHAT IS BEING CYBER SMART?

As a consumer, you need to know the steps that you should take to ensure that your online presence is safe and secure. Cybercriminals are good at collecting personal information from unsuspecting victims. Everyone should know how to be safe when surfing the web but then internet safety is tricky; as technology evolves, cybercriminals also find other means to get this data. Take a moment to be certain the path ahead is clear. Watch for warning signs and consider how your actions online could impact your safety, or your family’s.

5 TIPS TO BE CYBER AWARE, BE CYBER SMART

1. Practice good password management – Use a strong mix of characters, and don’t use the same password for multiple sites.
2. Always be careful when clicking on attachments or links in emails – If it’s unexpected or suspicious for any reason, don’t click on it

3. Be careful of what you plug in to your computer. Malware can be spread through infected flash drives, external hard drives, and even smartphones.
4. Watch what you’re sharing on social networks – Criminals can befriend you and easily gain access to a shocking amount of personal information— your address, your movements etc. —that could help them gain access to more valuable data.

5. Offline, be wary of social engineering – where someone attempts to gain information from you through manipulation. If someone calls or emails you asking for sensitive information, it is okay to say no. You can always call the company directly to verify credentials before giving out any information.

There will be a lot of activities that will be taking place throughout the month to ensure that the key message reaches individuals all over the country. Watch the press for details and do get involved where you can because everyone has a role to play in combatting cybercrime.