Governor Walz Proclaims Cybersecurity Awareness Month in Minnesota  

Saint Paul, MN - Governor Tim Walz /mnit/assets/10.01.24%20Cybersecurity%20Awareness%20Month_tcm38-647550.pdfhas declared October 2024 as "Cybersecurity Awareness Month" in Minnesota, aligning with National Cybersecurity Awareness Month. This proclamation highlights the importance of cybersecurity education and awareness for all Minnesotans. 

Minnesota employs a statewide approach to safeguard the personal information of its citizens, residents, and visitors while ensuring critical systems remain operational. Minnesota IT Services (MNIT) plays a key role by preventing, monitoring, detecting, and collaborating with federal and local governments to address cyber threats targeting state systems and services. 

As reliance on information systems and technology increases, so does the need to identify, protect against, and respond to cyber threats. Although this may seem daunting, every Minnesotan can take steps to protect themselves, their families, and their businesses. 

"Minnesotans can shield themselves from growing cyber threats," said MNIT Commissioner Tarek Tomes. "While cybersecurity can feel complicated, doable practices like using strong passwords, enabling multi-factor authentication, keeping devices updated, and being aware of phishing attempts make a big difference." 

Throughout Cybersecurity Awareness Month, MNIT will share cybersecurity tips on social media to raise awareness about protecting personal information, safely using AI tools like ChatGPT, online travel safety, and more. MNIT will also run an internal campaign to educate state employees on cybersecurity best practices and reporting procedures.