As part of Cyber Security Awareness Month 2023, University of Toronto launched a month-long campaign to spread security awareness and bring the tri-campus community together to discuss security matters.
The theme of this year’s campaign revolved around the newly released Information Security strategy, with both virtual and in-person events focusing on the four information security strategic objectives. Check out this year’s highlight
Cyber Security Awareness Month campaign web pages
The campaign and resources web pages acted as a one-stop shop, featuring information about the campaign, events and digital and educational resources, all geared towards promoting information security awareness. The pages gained a total of 640 views over the month of October.
Meet and greet: Information Security at U of T
On Oct. 17, more than 135 students visited the Information Security booth at Bahen Centre’s atrium. The booth offered games and giveaways to enhance students’ information security knowledge. Visitors engaged with the tri-campus Information Security team, including Chief Information Security Officer, Isaac Straley. The conversations ranged from online safety tips, and privacy to cybersecurity careers and more.
Listening to researchers: Safeguarding data and intellectual property
On Oct. 12, the virtual event started with Professor Karl Zabjek discussing the intersection of data security and ethics and outlining a researcher’s daily challenges. The panelists discussed challenges in their areas caused by new technologies and new government policies/requirements, and highlighted where improvements in the supporting and facilitation of research can and should be made. Particular focus was placed on the essential role of collaboration in research and reducing risks within inter-institutional work.
Secure together: Addressing information security risks
On Oct. 26, the University’s information security experts discussed how they are addressing security risks and challenges within their areas. They talked about the role of information security strategic initiatives in furthering risk management goals, highlighting efforts such as the Information Security Risk Management Program, EndPoint Protection Program and the Security Awareness and Training Program.
Converging for excellence: Tri-campus Information Security collaboration
The final panel event on Oct. 31 focused on achieving excellence through collaboration and featured tri-campus panelists who talked about collaborating on security matters through various forums, including the Information Security Council and project steering committees. They highlighted collaborative initiatives, campus-wide efforts, and supportive tools like the IT@UofT Inclusive Language Guide.
The panel events had more than 130 attendees overall. Attendees indicated that they gained valuable insights about information security and encouraged more collaborative events that include multiple units for discussion.
Although CSAM 2023 has concluded, our shared responsibility for information security remains. We all play a part in protecting ourselves and the University from the risks of online threats. We are truly secure together.
Keep visiting the Security Matters website for more information security news and updates.