Cyber security. You have heard the phrase uttered countless times, but what does it mean? And if there is a cyberattack, who cleans it up? Soon, the answer could be Marshalltown Community College students who are taking computers curriculum. Cyber security and networking are so important that I am weaving security concepts into every class I teach.

Believe it or not, there are simple things that each of us can do to protect ourselves online.

• Create Strong Passwords or Pass Phrases

A passphrase consists of four or more words put together to make an easy to remember passphrase but because of the length are harder to crack. They are also easier to remember than a string of random letters, symbols, and numbers. An example of a passphrase is “Moon tattle scary rainbow”.

• Consider Using a Password Manager

One way to make the challenge of having multiple unique passwords/passphrases possible is to use a password manager. A password manager is an online option for storing all your passwords and making it so you only have to remember one super strong password. All the rest of your individualized passwords are stored and auto filled into the websites that you have saved the individualized passwords for.

• Use Multi-Factor Authentication When Possible

Many systems are now going to a system where you must verify your identity twice – both by entering a password online and then responding to a text or an email. Essentially, you are verifying your identity multiple times, creating a safer environment.

• Keep Your Computer Safe

You have heard it before – keep your computer software up-to-date, turn on firewall protection, use a secure internet connection, and back up your critical data. The better you care for and maintain your computer, the more protected you will be.

• Surf the Web in Incognito Mode

Every layer of protection helps, right? One thing you can do to protect yourself when browsing or searching is to use the Incognito Mode on your browser. Incognito mode will erase your browsing and search history once you end your Incognito session. In addition, it will also erase any tracking cookies you picked up while perusing the Internet.

• When to Call the Professionals

Even if you have been extraordinarily careful, compromises are possible. If you pick up a virus on your computer, there are professionals that can check the extent of the damage to your machine. Your anti-virus and malware protection will keep your computer protected to a degree.

Our students will be able to assist in backing up and restoring your machine and your overall network. We are training IT professionals that will be able to work in companies large and small who can work on protecting networks. We are adding additional programs all the time, based on demand. We are proud of the work our students are doing, and we are excited to see where they will take network security in the future. Consider looking into our coursework and a career that involves network security.

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Linda Ludwig works in computer

applications for IVCCD.