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European Cybersecurity Month (ECSM) 2020

The European Cybersecurity Month (ECSM) is the European Union’s annual campaign dedicated to promoting cybersecurity among EU citizens and organizations, and to providing up-to-date online security information through awareness-raising and sharing of good practices.

 

The ECSM campaign is coordinated by the European Union Agency for Cybersecurity (ENISA) and the European Commission, and supported by the EU Member States and hundreds of partners from Europe, and beyond. The EU Agency for Cybersecurity coordinates the organization of the ECSM campaign by acting as a “hub” for all participating Member States and EU Institutions, and by providing expert suggestions, generating synergies, and promoting common messaging among EU citizens, businesses, and public administration. The Agency also publishes new materials and provides expert advice on different cybersecurity topics for Member States’ audiences.

 

‘Cybersecurity is a Shared Responsibility’

 

Since the first event in 2012, the European Cybersecurity Month has been reaching its key priorities by bringing together parties from across Europe under the slogan ‘Cybersecurity is a Shared Responsibility’ to unite against cyber threats. Each year, the campaign not only promotes the safer use of the Internet for EU citizens, but the organizers provide the knowledge and tools to do so, find more on ECSM Through the Years.

 

‘Think Before U Click’ #ThinkB4UClick

 

‘Think Before U Click’ is the official motto of ECSM 2020. This October, the programme focuses on two themes to help people identify and be prepared for cyber threats. The first theme, ‘Digital Skills’, provides participants with information on e-privacy matters such as personal data protection, cyberbullying, and cyberstalking. The second theme, ‘Cyber Scams’, shares insights into current and potential cyber threats such as phishing, business email compromise, and online shopping fraud.

 

The EU Agency for Cybersecurity and its partners will be publishing reports, organizing events and activities such as training events, strategy summits, presentations, and more. Check back for updates on the full program.

 

2020 ECSM Themes

 

Week 1 & 2: October 1-16 - Cyber Scams

 

The first theme, ‘Cyber Scams’, provides insights on current and potential cyber threats to help the general public and businesses minimise risks. COVID-19 has led to an increase in e-commerce, which has triggered concerns about the security of data and online payments. Activities in this theme will focus on phishing, business email compromise and online shopping fraud. The key message encourages users to have a heightened awareness of cyber scams when conducting business and personal transactions online.

 

Week 3 & 4: Oct. 17-31 - Digital Skills

 

The second theme, ‘Digital Skills’, presents educational activities that inform the general public on Internet security. The COVID-19 pandemic has increased the digitalisation of everyday life. This new hyperconnected world requires an awareness of current skills for citizens to stay on top of trends and be safe online. The theme covers e-privacy matters such as personal data protection, cyber bullying and cyber stalking. The key message conveys the importance of cyber hygiene and establishing good practices online.

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