October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month, a nationwide initiative dedicated to promoting safe online practices. This article continues our effort to help the campus community understand digital threats and adopt habits that keep personal and academic data secure. Today’s focus: simple but powerful steps students can take to protect themselves in the digital world.

Why cybersecurity matters for students

College students are prime targets for cybercriminals. With constant online activity – classwork, banking and social media – students manage vast amounts of personal data that can be exploited if not properly protected. A single lapse in security can lead to identity theft, financial loss or the exposure of sensitive information.

Common threats to students

Students face a variety of online threats, including:

• Phishing scams: Fraudulent messages that impersonate professors, campus offices or financial aid departments to steal login credentials.
• Malware and viruses: Harmful software that can infect devices through suspicious links or downloads.
• Public wi-fi risks: Open networks in dorms, libraries and coffee shops can expose personal data to hackers.
• Social engineering: Manipulative tactics that trick users into revealing private information.

How to protect yourself

Improving cybersecurity doesn’t require technical expertise. Small, consistent actions make a big difference:

• Use strong, unique passwords: Create complex passwords and use a password manager to keep them safe.
• Enable multifactor authentication: This extra verification step helps secure your email, school accounts and banking apps.
• Keep software updated: Turn on automatic updates to patch vulnerabilities in your devices and apps.
• Be smart about wi-fi: Avoid logging into sensitive accounts on public networks; use a VPN for extra protection.
• Think before you click: Don’t open unexpected attachments or click unfamiliar links, even if they appear legitimate.

If you think you’ve been compromised

If you suspect that your device or account has been hacked, disconnect from the network and contact your campus IT help desk immediately. They can assist in containing the problem and recovering your data safely.

A shared responsibility

Cybersecurity isn’t just about technology – it’s about awareness. Every cautious click, secure password and verified email helps protect not only you but the entire campus community. During Cybersecurity Awareness Month, take time to assess your habits. Are you protecting yourself online? If not, start today.

Need help? Visit it.mst.edu or email the IT Help Desk.