ENISA Appoints October as First European Cyber Security Month

The European Network and Information Security Agency (ENISA) has launched the European Cyber Security Month (ECSM) pilot project. This month, various European countries will take part in events and activities whose main goal is to raise awareness of cyber security.

A critical cyber security incident can seriously affect a company or an individual. Cyberattacks can not only endanger reputations, but also the people or the organizations whose details become exposed.

In the past period, private and government companies have begun to realize that protecting their infrastructure should be a top priority.

The ECSM’s main goal is to promote awareness among users of Europe, to show everyone that cyber security should not be taken lightly, and to provide updated information on various related topics.

Participant countries – Romania, Spain, Portugal, the United Kingdom, Slovenia, Norway, Luxembourg, and the Czech Republic - will host various activities such as social media campaigns, conferences, student fairs, non-governmental organization roundtables to discuss the protection of children in online environments, and even TV and radio advertisements.

“This first European Cyber Security Month is a Europe-wide campaign to become smarter online. Having one single month focusing on cyber security makes it easier to get the message across,” Professor Udo Helmbrecht, executive director of ENISA, explained.

“This campaign increases citizens’ confidence in the security of the Internet, helping to reduce the number of cyber incidents and breaches. In the end, this is vital for the success of the digital economy in Europe,” he added.

“We all have a stake in keeping the Internet safe. Whether you are a parent, a business owner, or just someone who loves their smartphone – the same principles apply. Be aware, use common sense,” Vice President and Commissioner for the Digital Agenda Nellie Kroes noted.

“I am pleased that so many are supporting European Cyber Security Month – a great way to present these issues to the general public in a fun and engaging way.”

For those interested in participating in ENISA’s ECSM, the agency is offering all sorts of materials, including tips and advice, posters, web banners, and video clips.