Every October, National Cyber Security Awareness Month (NCSAM) shines a spotlight on the importance of cybersecurity for individuals and organizations of all sizes. It’s a coordinated effort led by the National Cyber Security Alliance (NCA) and the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) to help the public understand and reduce online risk.

Whether you’re a small business owner, IT leader, or remote worker, NCSAM is a chance to reset your cyber defenses and strengthen your digital habits.

What Is National Cyber Security Awareness Month?

National Cyber Security Awareness Month is an annual initiative observed every October to educate people about cybersecurity threats and promote best practices for staying safe online. The campaign was launched in 2004 by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and the National Cyber Security Alliance, and continues to grow globally each year.

In recent years, themes like “Secure Our World” and “Stay Safe Online” have encouraged organizations and individuals alike to adopt simple but impactful cybersecurity behaviors.

Why It Matters for Your Business

Cyberattacks aren’t just a “big company problem.” Small and mid-sized businesses are often targeted because they may lack robust cybersecurity controls. A single successful breach can lead to:

  • financial loss

  • operational disruption

  • damage to customer trust

NCSAM is a timely reminder that cybersecurity is a shared responsibility across your people, processes, and technology.

7 Practical Cybersecurity Actions to Take This Month

Here are actionable steps your team can implement today that align with learned best practices and the campaign’s goals:

1. Use Strong Passwords & a Password Manager

Weak passwords are still one of the most common vulnerabilities. Use unique, complex passwords for every account and store them in a trusted password manager.

2. Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

Adding a second authentication step dramatically reduces the chance that attackers can access accounts even if a password is compromised.

3. Keep Software Updated

Regularly update operating systems, apps, plugins, and firmware. Updates often include security patches for newly discovered vulnerabilities.

4. Train Your Team on Phishing Awareness

Phishing remains a top attack vector. Teach your staff how to spot suspicious emails, texts, and links — and regularly reinforce this training.

5. Back Up Critical Data

Ensure that your backups are current and stored separately from your main systems. This protects you against ransomware and data corruption.

6. Review Access Privileges

Audit who has access to what. Only give users the permissions they absolutely need and remove access from former employees or unused accounts.

7. Develop an Incident Response Plan

Know how you’ll respond if something goes wrong. A clear incident response plan reduces downtime and confusion during an attack.

Ideas for Promoting Cybersecurity Awareness Internally

If you want to make NCSAM more than a checkbox exercise, consider:

  • Weekly security tips in internal newsletters

  • Short video trainings or lunch-and-learn sessions

  • Simulated phishing exercises

  • Recognition for employees who practice good cyber hygiene

These help build a security-minded culture instead of just ticking a compliance box.

How Your Business Can Join the Campaign

Organizations of all kinds — from government to nonprofits to small businesses — can become Cybersecurity Awareness Month Champions by sharing resources, participating in events, and highlighting cyber safety tips for their communities.

Visit the National Cybersecurity Alliance website to learn how your company can get involved.

Final Thoughts

Cybersecurity isn’t a once-a-year effort — but October gives you a perfect opportunity to reset and reinforce good habits. By taking a few simple actions now, you can reduce risk, protect your customers, and strengthen your digital resilience.

FAQ

Q: When is National Cyber Security Awareness Month?
Every October, annually.

Q: Who leads the campaign?
The effort is co-led by the National Cybersecurity Alliance and the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency.

Q: Is this only for IT teams?
No — cybersecurity is a business-wide responsibility, from leadership to frontline staff.