In response to the growing threat of cyberattacks, the Illinois Department of Innovation & Technology, along with the Illinois Emergency Management Agency, Office of Homeland Security, and the Illinois State Police, have joined forces to educate and equip residents with essential knowledge to enhance online security. This initiative joins with Cybersecurity Awareness Month, aiming to emphasize the shared responsibility of protecting digital environments.

Sanjay Gupta, Acting Secretary of the Illinois Department of Innovation & Technology, highlighted the importance of collective efforts, stating, "October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month, and we believe that cybersecurity is a shared responsibility. By raising awareness and providing actionable guidance, we empower residents to take control of their online safety. Together, we can build a stronger and more secure digital future for Illinois."

Homeland Security Advisor to the Governor and IEMA-OHS Director, Alicia Tate-Nadeau, emphasized the significance of individual actions, urging residents to take steps such as creating strong passwords to prevent hacking. She warned that neglecting this aspect could lead to extensive efforts in restoring online profiles and personal accounts. Additionally, she stressed the criticality of protecting workplace credentials to prevent unauthorized access to employer records.

Brendan F. Kelly, Director of the Illinois State Police, reminded the public that while the Illinois Statewide Terrorism Intelligence Center focuses on sharing cyber threat information with law enforcement, individuals must also take steps to safeguard their personal information and monitor financial accounts. He encouraged proactive measures to mitigate risks.

The Illinois Department of Innovation and Technology along with the Illinois Emergency Management Office of Homeland Security advise of these tips to keep personal data safe. Use a unique password for each account. Do not include children's, pets or family member names in passwords. Use a combination of upper and lower case letters and be cautious of any online offers.

This collaborative effort by the Illinois agencies seeks to raise awareness and empower residents to enhance their cybersecurity practices during the month of October and beyond, ensuring a more secure digital future for the state.