Cybersecurity Awareness Month: Safety Tips from VGCC Information Technology

October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month, and it’s the perfect time to brush up on how to stay safe in an increasingly digital world. Check out the safety tips below from VGCC’s Information Technology department to make sure you’re keeping your household’s information as secure as possible!

Interested in pursuing a career in cybersecurity? Let Vance-Granville Community College help you get there. Recognized among the nation’s top Associate in IT options by TechGuide in 2026, our Information Technology programs are designed to get you career-ready. Earn your Cyber Security Support certificate fully online, focus on cybersecurity as part of your associate in applied science degree, or transfer to ECU’s BSIT program to build further expertise.

Registration for January classes opens on Monday, November 2. To learn more about VGCC’s cybersecurity program and other IT concentrations, contact Spence Bailey, VGCC Program Head for IT, at [email protected].

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Cybersecurity Tips

Phishing Scams

• Be cautious of emails or messages from unknown senders.
• Avoid clicking on links or opening attachments unless you are sure of their source.
• If you are unsure of a text or email, do not respond or click the link within the text or email.
• Report any suspicious phishing attempts by clicking on “report phishing” when possible.

Device Security

• Use strong passwords and enable biometric locks (like fingerprints or face recognition) on your devices.
• Regularly update your antivirus software to protect against malware.
• Change your passwords at least once to twice a year.
• Do not reuse passwords or use same passwords for multiple accounts.

Account Monitoring

• Frequently check your bank and email accounts for any unauthorized transactions or suspicious activity.
• Set up alerts for any unusual account activity.

Safe Browsing Practices

• Use a VPN (“virtual private network”) when accessing public Wi-Fi to encrypt your internet traffic. VPNs are inexpensive and can save you from having your identity and/or information stolen.
• Ensure websites are secure by looking for “https” in the URL before entering personal information.
• It is up to you to read everything before you check the box or sign your name. Understand exactly what you are agreeing to (whether online or on paper).

Social Media Caution

• Limit the personal information you share on social media platforms.
• Be aware that cybercriminals can use your shared details to impersonate you or guess passwords.
• Understand that not everyone needs to know everything about you. On social media, the less information you share, the better; you will be protected from those who want to steal your information.
• Remember that a platform that offers free service is not free. You may not pay up front, but you do pay with your browsing history and information you have agreed to share with the site.

It’s important to be wary of phishing scams, secure your devices with strong passwords, and regularly monitor your accounts for suspicious activity. Additionally, consider using antivirus software and a VPN when on public networks to enhance your online safety. By focusing on these areas, you can enhance your online safety and reduce the risk of cyber threats during Cybersecurity Awareness Month and throughout the year.

— Dr. JD Sheuring, IT/Cybersecurity Instructor, VGCC

Information from www.cisa.gov and www.dhs.gov