Cyberspace on the chase

MINOT AIR FORCE BASE, ND, UNITED STATES

10.27.2021

Story by Senior Airman Dillon Audit 

Minot Air Force Base

With new technology advancing and expanding our capabilities in the Air Force, cybersecurity is the defense we need to prevent our adversaries from invading our cyberspace.

“Cyber Security is important so our adversaries don't gain access to our critical systems or shut our communications down,” said Airman 1st Class William White, 5th Communication Squadron cyber security technician. “The number one important thing to keep the mission going is definitely communications.”

Cyber Security specialists are responsible for preventing, detecting and repelling cyber attacks, as well as ensuring the security of computer networks and online communications.

“If you see anything suspicious, you should take caution with that,” said White. “If there's anything that seems even slightly suspicious, then you should report it. Worst case scenario, if it is something malicious, then it's better to be safe than sorry.”

Besides the importance of cyber security, there are many ways of protecting yourself from cyber attacks.

“Strong passwords. Especially when it comes to pins, some people will write it down on a sticky note and think that it's secure as long as they keep it with them,” said White. “A lot of the time people end up losing those sticky notes and there's no telling who gets their hands on that.”



Other than having strong passwords and multiple pins there are other ways to secure yourself against our adversaries.

“A lot of people when they're just playing, say video games or just browsing the web, it's always smart to have a virtual private network (VPN),” said White. “You never know when somebody is going to try to attack your network and it's always better to have that wall of protection.”

Even if you have VPNs or strong passwords our official military emails can also fall victim to cyber attacks.

“The best thing to do with emails is not to open up random emails, especially from people you don't know,” said White. “The only time you should really do that is if you're expecting something.”

October is Cyber Security Awareness month, but remaining vigilant is important all year round. Next time you see something suspicious, odd or out of place, let someone know. The 5th Communication Squadron is there to ensure that we stay safe, secure and protected.

• Date Taken: 10.27.2021
• Date Posted: 11.01.2021 11:40
• Story ID: 408140
• Location: MINOT AIR FORCE BASE, ND, US