Cybersecurity Awareness Month highlights AI risks and digital safety

October marks Cybersecurity Awareness Month, focusing on the increasing sophistication of cyber threats and the dual role of artificial intelligence in the security landscape. The National Cybersecurity Alliance has introduced the theme “Don’t Make It Easy for Them,” encouraging improved everyday security practices, while the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) is prioritizing the strengthening of critical infrastructure.

Research from Foundry indicates that security leaders are navigating significant transformations, including AI-powered threats, expanding security budgets, and talent shortages. AI is currently emerging as both a critical defense tool and a growing source of organizational risk.

In community-level initiatives, organizations like CTC are addressing digital safety for younger users. Through educational tools such as the children’s book “Cyber Tech Critters,” efforts are being made to teach children to recognize online scams and the importance of consulting adults when encountering suspicious digital activity.