ESCM — European Cyber Security Month

October is European Cyber Security Month (ESCM). Let's find out more about it.

What is ECSM?

Since 2012, ECSM has been raising awareness about prudent and responsible use in the cyber space. Since then, the action month has been a regular pan-European format.

ESCM encourages people to engage with Cyber Security issues and to take action themselves. By raising Cyber Security awareness, individuals and businesses can effectively mitigate risks posed by both unintentional mistakes and malicious intent.

What is Cyber Security?

Also spelled Cybersecurity, this field encompasses the protection of systems, networks and programs from digital attacks. Cyber attacks are typically aimed at accessing, altering or destroying confidential information, extorting funds or disrupting normal business operations.

The increasing volume of data, as well as the trend of more people working and networking from anywhere, has resulted in sophisticated attack methods. In organisations, people, processes and technologies must complement each other to build effective protection against cyberattacks. An effective Cyber Security program is comprised of people, processes, and technology solutions that work together to reduce the risk of business disruption, financial loss, and reputational damage.

According to the Verizon Data Breach Investigations Report (DBIR) 2023, 74% of all security breaches are due to human weaknesses. Human error, misuse of privileges, use of stolen credentials, or social engineering — people play an important role in cyber attacks.

What kind of security threats can you encounter?

The list is endless. You may face...

➤ Malware

Malware stands for all types of malicious software, including worms, ransomware, spyware and viruses.

➤ Phishing

A form of social engineering that occurs via emails, text messages, or voice messages.

➤ Ransomware

A form of extortion that uses malware to encrypt files and render them unusable.

➤ Social engineering

Attackers gain people's trust in order to pressure them into handing over account information or downloading malware.

➤ Insider threats

Security breaches or financial losses caused by people who already have access to certain systems, such as employees, contractors, or customers.

➤ Complex persistent threats

Attackers gain access to systems, going undetected for an extended period of time.

How can you protect yourself from cyber attacks?

Knowledge is power. Whether you're pursuing a career in Cyber Security yourself or want to upskill your teams, plan to achieve a top Cyber Security certification.

Listed in no particular order, the certifications below are all industry recognised, widely respected, and will help you develop the skills to protect yourself and your company:

• CompTIA Security+ 
• EC-Council Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)
• EC-Council Chief Information Security Officer (CCISO)
• ISACA Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control (CRISC)
• ISACA Certified Information System Auditor (CISA)
• ISACA Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)
• ISC2 Certified Secure Software Lifecycle Professional (CSSLP)
• ISC2 Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP)
• ISC2 Certified Information Security System Professional (CISSP)
• ISO 27001 Lead Auditor

At Firebrand, we specialise in accelerated training, so, if you take a course with us, you'll be certified and back to work in half the time.

Secure your business with Firebrand

For the past twelve years in a row, we’ve been named one of the Top 20 IT Training Companies in the World. At Firebrand, we take Cyber Security very seriously, making it a core component of our accelerated courses, Apprenticeships, and Skills Bootcamps.

Perhaps one of them is right for you? See all our Cyber Security courses.