Fighting cybercrime starts with consumers

by: Karen Postma

I recently had the privilege to participate in the National Cyber Security Alliance’s (NCSA’s) Iowa stop on their “Two Steps Ahead: Protect Your Digital Life” tour. The public event was held on the Iowa State University (ISU) campus on September 4 and aimed to educate consumers and businesses about adding layers of security to their everyday online activities.

U.S. Senator Chuck Grassley, Iowa Attorney General Tom Miller and ISU President Steven Leath opened the event, which featured a hands-on demonstration educating attendees how to step up their security on sites like Google, Facebook and LinkedIn. I was honored to participate in a panel discussion, alongside experts from the Federal Trade Commission, ISU and the Better Business Bureau.

Much of the discussion focused on prevention and protection from cyber crime and identity theft. Among the specifics was the need for a “cyber security army” in the workforce. ISU and other universities are now training future cyber security professionals via innovative cyber defense degree programs. These degrees are leading to new and interesting career opportunities.

Along the lines of prevention, event leaders recommended businesses implement the practice of two-step verification on their websites. Requiring two independent forms of identity verification can help ensure the individual trying to access the account is in fact the account’s authorized user.

Also covered during the event were useful tips for preventing cyber crime by proactively protecting accounts and information. Many of these can be shared with your own employees and customers.

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