National Cyber Security Awareness Month

National Cyber Security Awareness Month (NCSAM) is observed in October in the United States of America.^[1][2] Started by the National Cyber Security Division within the Department of Homeland Security and the nonprofit National Cyber Security Alliance, the month raises awareness about the importance of cybersecurity.^[3]

National Cyber Security Awareness Month
National Cyber Security Awareness Month logo
Nickname	NCSAM
Status	Active
Genre	Awareness month
Frequency	Annually
Country	USA
Inaugurated	October 2004; 20 years ago (2004-10)
Sponsors	National Cyber Security Division Department of Homeland Security National Cyber Security Alliance
Website	www.cisa.gov/cybersecurity-awareness-month

Cybersecurity Awareness Month is observed in October in Australia.^[4]

History

In 2004, the Department of Homeland Security and the National Cyber Security Alliance launched National Cyber Security Awareness Month as a broad effort to help Americans stay safe and secure online.^[2][5] Initial efforts included advice like keeping antivirus programs up to date.^[6] Since 2009, the month has included an overall theme, "Our Shared Responsibility," and weekly themes throughout the month were introduced in 2011.^[6] In October 2023, a new theme "Secure Our World" was announced as an enduring theme for future years.^[7]