The University of Nebraska–Lincoln has joined the global effort to promote Cybersecurity Awareness Month in October, empowering Huskers to stay safe online. Whether you're a student, faculty or staff, your actions play a vital role in protecting the university’s digital environment.
Working with Information and Technology Services, the university is spotlighting the “Core 4” simple steps everyone can take to strengthen cybersecurity:
- Use strong passwords and a password manager;
- Turn on multifactor authentication;
- Update your software; and
- Recognize and report scams.
Cybersecurity does not have to be intimidating. These small actions make a big impact in keeping our campus safe.
Cybersecurity awareness matters
Cybersecurity awareness means understanding digital threats and knowing how to protect yourself and university data. In a higher education setting, this includes safeguarding student records, research data and institutional systems.
With the rise of remote learning, cloud-based tools and increasingly sophisticated cyber threats, awareness is more critical than ever. Universities are prime targets for attacks due to the volume of sensitive data and open-access environments.
Risks of being unaware
Without cybersecurity awareness, individuals risk falling for phishing scams, compromising personal or institutional data, and enabling cybercriminals to disrupt academic operations. Consequences can include financial loss, identity theft, and damage to research integrity.
Impact of a cyber-aware university
When end users are cyber aware, the entire institution benefits:
- Stronger protection of academic and personal data;
- Fewer phishing and malware incidents;
- Faster response to suspicious activity;
- Improved digital citizenship and academic integrity; and
- Lower recovery costs and more resources for innovation
How ITS supports you
The NU Information Technology Services team is working behind scenes to protect campus systems, monitor threats and provide tools and training to help students, faculty and staff stay secure. This month, watch for tips, activities and resources to boost cybersecurity skills.
Together, we can build a safer digital campus — one smart click at a time.
