October is National Cyber Security Awareness Month

This October marks the seventh annual National Cyber Security Awareness Month sponsored by the Department of Homeland Security. This month encourages people to be aware of computer security and to take steps to help keep their information secure. 

Here at The Tech Desk, we have posted articles about computer security, including news about new anti-virus software and tips for avoiding online scams. Here are several other excellent articles on how to stay safe online.

• Gmail Security Checklist 
  While some of this post is Gmail and Google account specific, it offers an easy, step-by-step checklist of actions that anyone can take to improve their online security.
• Password Protection: How to Create Strong Passwords
  This article from pcmag.com provides several excellent ways on how you can create strong passwords.
• How to Choose Strong Passwords
  This video from Mozilla shows how to easily create memorable passwords that can be used at different websites.
• Stop. Think. Connect.
  The National Cyber Security Alliance and Anti-Phishing Working Group have created a campaign to encourage users to think about security when they are online. Their Stop. Think. Connect. website offers advice on how to maintain online security.
•  The Easy, Any-Browser, Any-OS Password Solution
  Do you often have trouble remembering the passwords for all of your favorite websites? If so, you may want to try password manager software. This article from lifehacker.com describes how to use Last Pass, one of the more popular password managers available. 

By using some of the simple tips in these articles, you will have a safer online experience.