Cybersecurity Awareness Month – Online Safety Tips

October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month! This month is a reminder for everyone to prioritize online safety and security. TCC’s Cyber Center understands that knowing how to protect ourselves from cyber threats has never been more crucial.

Throughout this month, take the opportunity to enhance your knowledge about online safety; including: phishing scams, password security, and safe browsing practices. Below are a number of tips to help you stay prepared and safe:

Use Strong Passwords: Create strong, unique passwords for all your accounts. Use a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols.
Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Add an extra layer of protection by enabling MFA on your online accounts, especially email and financial services.
Keep Software Updated: Ensure your operating system, browsers, and applications are up-to-date. Updates often include critical security patches.
Be Wary of Phishing Scams: Think before clicking on links or opening attachments in emails from unknown senders. Phishing is a common method used by cybercriminals to steal information.
Secure Your Mobile Device: Use a password, fingerprint, or face recognition to lock your phone. Avoid using public Wi-Fi for sensitive tasks.
Back Up Important Data: Regularly back up your files to the cloud or an external hard drive to protect against data loss from attacks or hardware failure.
Avoid Public Wi-Fi for Financial Transactions: Public Wi-Fi networks are often unsecured. Use a virtual private network (VPN) or mobile data for financial transactions or logging into sensitive accounts.
Recognize Suspicious Links: Before clicking on a link, hover your mouse over it to check the actual URL. Phishing scams often disguise harmful links.
Use Antivirus Software: Install reputable antivirus software and keep it updated to protect your devices from malware and other cyber threats.
Be Careful with Social Media Information: Limit what you share on social media. Cybercriminals can use personal details to steal your identity or trick you into scams.
Monitor Your Accounts Regularly: Check your bank, email, and other important accounts regularly for suspicious activity and unauthorized transactions.
Use Secure Password Managers: Store and manage your passwords with a secure password manager to ensure they are strong and unique.
Turn Off Bluetooth When Not in Use: Disable Bluetooth on your devices when not in use to prevent unauthorized connections.
Think Before Downloading: Only download apps and files from trusted sources. Malicious software can be disguised as legitimate downloads.
Review Privacy Settings: Periodically review the privacy settings on your social media and online accounts to control what information is shared.
Lock Your Computer When Away: Always lock your computer or laptop when you step away, especially in public places like libraries or coffee shops.
Use Encrypted Messaging Apps: For sensitive communications, use messaging apps that offer end-to-end encryption, such as Signal or WhatsApp.
Don’t Share Personal Information Over Email: Avoid sharing sensitive information (like your Social Security number) over email. Use encrypted communication if necessary.
Secure Your Home Wi-Fi: Change your default router password and use a strong Wi-Fi password. Enable WPA3 encryption if available.
Log Out of Accounts: Always log out of accounts when you’re done, especially on shared or public computers.
Avoid Clicking on Pop-Ups: Pop-ups often contain malware or phishing attempts. Use a browser that blocks or limits pop-ups, and never click on suspicious ones.
Set Strong Security Questions: Avoid using easy-to-guess security questions (like “What is your pet’s name?”). Use complex or less common answers to strengthen account recovery security.
Stay Cautious of Email Attachments: Do not open attachments from unknown or unexpected sources. Attachments can carry malware or ransomware.
Use a VPN on Public Networks: When using public Wi-Fi, use a VPN to encrypt your internet traffic and protect your data from hackers.
Watch Out for Fake Websites: Cybercriminals often create fake websites to steal your information. Look for “https” in the address bar and verify website URLs carefully.
Disable Unnecessary Browser Extensions: Extensions can pose security risks. Disable or uninstall extensions you don’t use, and only install trusted ones.
Beware of Fake Tech Support: Scammers may call or pop up on your screen claiming to be tech support. Never give remote access to your computer unless you initiated the contact.
Protect Your Online Reputation: Be mindful of what you post online. Once something is shared on the internet, it can be difficult to remove.
Be Cautious of Unsolicited Messages: Whether it’s a text, direct message, or email, be cautious when receiving unsolicited messages asking for personal information.
Review and Delete Old Accounts: Old accounts you no longer use can be a security risk. Review your accounts and delete those you no longer need.
Learn to Recognize Ransomware: Ransomware can lock your files and demand payment. Avoid downloading suspicious attachments or clicking on unfamiliar links, and regularly back up your data.

“I had an advantage coming to TCC with a degree, but the classes I took there built skills I didn’t have.” – James Read

Meet James Read.

He came to Tidewater Community College as an adult learner with a computer science degree from James Madison University.

After working as a help desk technician, and also doing residential electrical work and home security installations, he wanted more.

“I came to TCC looking for a career transition into cybersecurity. I see this as a national security issue,” Read said. “With Ransomeware attacks on the rise and shutdowns like the Colonial Pipeline and SolarWinds, it’s easy to see the growing need for trained cyber professionals.”

While at TCC, Read earned a Career Studies Certificate in Cyber Security. Thanks to the credits he earned while completing his bachelor’s degree, he is now at work on a master’s in cybersecurity at Old Dominion University.

Read is one of three TCC students to receive the National Science Foundation CyberCorps Scholarship for Service. The scholarship will cover tuition and fees for his master’s degree.

The scholarship includes a generous stipend, book allowance and professional development funds. When he graduates, Read will work in a federal agency doing cyber work for at least three years.

“I definitely had an advantage coming to TCC with a computer science degree, but the classes I took at TCC built skills I didn’t have,” Read said

While at TCC Read was president of the Cybersecurity Club, an organization he also credits for adding to his learning.

“During the pandemic, we went virtual but kept on leaning together. I think being part of the club helped with the transition to online learning,” he added.

“When learning together it’s important to know that you’re not competing with the people around you. You can succeed at your own pace as long as you do the work,” Read said.

Read sends a shoutout to faculty members Joel Kirch and Gregg Tennefoss for the mentoring and hands-on learning they facilitated. He added, “I had so many opportunities at TCC and was pleased with the quality of my cyber education.”

“If not for my experience at TCC, I would not be where I am today”

Tania Golden Beldy has always been interested in criminal justice and the law.

But after the news reported the new doll she bought for her daughter had been hacked, her attention focused on the lack of internet safety laws and how this could affect her family.

“I decided to be part of the solution when I heard consumer safety groups blowing the whistle on these new tech toys as a possible gateway to criminal behavior,” Beldy said.

“My time at TCC completely influenced my decision to pursue cybersecurity law. The courses were well-designed and offered the framework for the work I’m doing,” she said.

Tania Golden Beldy at TCC’s Chesapeake Campus.

Beldy, 52, chose Tidewater Community College because of the positive feedback about the Cyber Security program and the knowledge and experience of the professors.

About TCC’s Cyber Security programs

Since its inception, TCC’s network security/cybersecurity curriculum has been aligned with national standards for cybersecurity established and maintained by the National Institute for Standards and Technology and the National Security Agency (NSA).

TCC’s is designated as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defensefor Two-Year schools by the NSA and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.

For Beldy, her future became clear just two semesters into the program. Having already earned a bachelor’s, she realized after talking to Professor Rob Guess that a master’s in cybersecurity law was the perfect option.

A new beginning in law

Beldy was accepted into the online graduate cybersecurity law program offered through the University of Maryland Frances King Carey School of Law.

“One of the greatest assets TCC offers is their professors. Through the years, I have noticed a decline in genuine interest, access and personal support during the academic experience,” Beldy said. “This was the total opposite at TCC. I felt as though the professors were genuine and personally vested in their students’ successes. If not for my experience at TCC, I would not be where I am today.”

Beldy, who will complete her master’s this May, works part time at a law firm while completing her capstone project that focuses on legislative advocacy and the legal loopholes that continue to leave users vulnerable.

“Today the internet is available to every person 24/7 with truly no option but to utilize it for daily life. It has become the new ‘wild west,’ where no one is safe,” Beldy said. “Like many other industries such as health care, the internet needs stricter legislation to protect us.”

Ready for a new career

Beldy hopes to work in the field of legislation and public policy with a focus on internet user protections and the responsibility of internet service providers and tech companies. She would also like to work in a corporate setting, acting as a liaison between the tech department and creative teams.

“TCC gave me the technical knowledge and empowered me to move toward a new career,” she said. “My family also provided much needed support, and it has been most rewarding to be able to prove to my children that it’s never too late.”

Beldy and husband Steven have a blended family of eight children, three dogs and a bird. In her free time, she enjoys painting, cooking and gardening.

In her own words

Melissa Strong, 28, came to Tidewater Community College to train for a career. Two years later, she is a systems and network engineer with General Dynamics Information Technology earning three times more than before college.

Before TCC

“I was working as a receptionist in a salon and spa, and I was always hunting for things to fix on the computer. I’ve always enjoyed technology, but it was not something I was encouraged to pursue.

“One of my coworkers encouraged me to go to TCC and take core IT classes until I figured out what I wanted to do.”

Why TCC?

“I really had no expectations going in. I took a virtualization course, and that led me to the cyber security program and Professor Rob Guess. After my first class, I was hooked. What I like best about cyber is that there are many different ways to apply what you are learning. It’s constantly changing and you have to keep learning and apply yourself.”

What are you doing with you Associate of Applied Science in Information Systems Technology?

“My degree was IT and I also have a certificate in cyber security. I now work as a systems and network engineer with General Dynamics Information Technology. My education at TCC prepared me to pass the exams necessary to get my job, including the A+ and Security+ certifications. I absolutely love the work I’m doing and the traveling that goes with the position.

“I’m earning three times what I made at the salon. I bought a little place in Norfolk with three bedrooms and a bath and a half. I love living on my own and enjoy cooking when I’m at home. I’m also driving a new-to-me car, a 2016 Toyota Corolla.”

Favorite professors?

“I connected with Professor Guess. He helped me get my job and was a knowledgeable and helpful teacher. Another favorite was Joel Kirch, the faculty advisor for the cyber club. He helped our group do a national cyber league competition.”

While at TCC?

“I volunteered with Computers for Student Success, where we fixed computers and then gave them to students who needed them. I absolutely loved the hands-on work combined with helping others.”

What’s next?

“I’m working on my bachelor’s in information technology from Western Governors University. I’d ultimately like to develop secure applications. What I love about this field is that there are many different ways to apply what you are learning. If you are working in one area, you can change directions easily.”

Best advice for students

“Definitely take advantage of the teachers and use them as resources. They have invaluable life and work experience and are willing to share that knowledge with students.”

Navy veteran on the road to success with cyber security degree

When Navy veteran Shawn Goodwin retires from his 9-to-5 job in 13 years, he and wife Karen plan to hit the open road in their RV to see small-town America. “We want to travel all over the U.S. and see landmarks, beaches, mountains, streams and everything but the big cities,” he said.

Thanks to earning his associate degree from Tidewater Community College in December, he’ll have the income to support his travels. His Associate of Science in Information Systems Technology with a concentration in Cyber Security will enable him to do cybersecurity work while he’s on the go.

“I see myself working sporadically during the day as required, to keep an income stream with enough to fund our adventures,” he said.

A self-described computer nerd, Goodwin, 42, was a Senior Chief electronics technician when he retired from the Navy. He served 20 years and completed tours around the globe and a stint in Antarctica supporting the National Science Foundation.

“That was my favorite tour!” he said. “I provided tech support for the portable and high-frequency radios used to communicate around the continent.”

After the military, Goodwin found work as an information technology program manager for Navy contractors. He enrolled at TCC because of the quality of the cyber security program with its designation as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense by the National Security Agency.

“TCC fit my work schedule,” he said. “The flexibility of the classes and the adult learners in class with me at night made it an excellent experience.”

Goodwin meshed well with his cyber professors, particularly Rob Guess, director of cyber security, who he calls a super nerd. “I’m about his age, and I just get him. He’s extremely smart and knows his stuff.”

Using his GI Bill, Goodman earned his TCC degree debt-free.

The father of three children, Goodwin is encouraging his youngest to enroll at TCC. “I see kids struggling with classes and I encourage them to keep their minds on their studies.”