Cybersecurity is a nonstop mission for all organizations. Tackling this global challenge requires us to work together and share knowledge. Every October, Cybersecurity Awareness Month is our annual opportunity to do just that.
A joint initiative of the National Cybersecurity Alliance (NCA) and the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), this annual event helps business leaders learn about threat actors’ latest tactics, where their operations may be at risk, and options for filling security gaps. With the average cost of a data breach reaching $4.44 million this year, the stakes are clearly high for all of us.
The 2025 theme for Cybersecurity Awareness Month is Stay Safe Online. As an NCA champion and CISA partner, Fortra is committed to advancing security maturity through innovative solutions.
Oh, Behave!
The Oh Behave! Annual Cybersecurity Attitudes and Behaviors Report 2025-2026, released by the National Cybersecurity Alliance in partnership with CybSafe, surveyed more than 6,500 people worldwide. The report explores key cybersecurity behaviors and attitudes, and the growing impact of artificial intelligence.
Stay Safe Tip #1: Use Strong Passwords and Protect Them
Knowing how to safeguard passwords on a corporate and individual basis is non-negotiable in today’s digital landscape. Practicing good password hygiene means creating strong, unique passwords or passphrases for every account, avoiding reuse across platforms, and regularly updating credentials. Reusing them across accounts? That’s a fast track to a breach.
Because strong passwords should be long and complex, a password manager is your best ally. These tools make logins “portable” across devices, giving users convenient access to their secure logins on all devices. With most people juggling dozens of accounts for work and personal use, a trusted password manager helps protect sensitive information and reduce the risk of human error.
The future of authentication is evolving. Passwordless authentication, which uses biometrics, security keys, or device-based credentials, is gaining traction as a more secure and user-friendly alternative. By eliminating passwords altogether, organizations can reduce phishing risks, improve user experience, and strengthen overall security posture.
Whether you're managing traditional passwords or transitioning to passwordless solutions, prioritizing account security is the goal.
Password Resources
Find out how Fortra’s Core Password self-service password solution can reduce costs, improve efficiencies, and decrease access risks for your organization.
Stay Safe Tip #2: Turn on Multi-Factor Authentication
When a threat actor gains access to login credentials, multi-factor authentication (MFA) adds a vital layer of protection that can block unauthorized entry into corporate networks, email accounts, SaaS platforms, and more. By requiring a second form of verification — such as a mobile code, authenticator app, or biometric check — MFA helps ensure that stolen passwords alone aren’t enough to compromise your systems.
However, effective MFA implementation depends on employee training and technical oversight. Default settings should be optimized for your organization’s needs, and users must understand how to recognize and respond to potential social engineering attempts. While no solution is foolproof, education and vigilance make MFA a powerful and increasingly essential part of any cybersecurity strategy.
MFA Resources
Stay Safe Tip #3: Recognize and Report Phishing
Phishing is a constant nuisance in everyday digital life. While some attempts are ridiculously obvious, others are cleverly crafted to mimic legitimate communications — often with convincing design and language.
When an employee clicks on a malicious link or opens a compromised document, the consequences can be severe. These actions may trigger malware or ransomware across the corporate network, or lead to social engineering scams that defraud individuals of money or sensitive data.
Because employees are the first line of defense against the phish, ongoing awareness training is essential. This means educating employees on how to recognize suspicious emails, links, and attachments, and what to avoid clicking. It also means implementing robust email security solutions encouraging prompt reporting of phishing attempts to help shut down attackers before they cause harm.
Anti-Phishing Resources
Implement a one-two phishing punch with an employee training and email protection bundle designed to safeguard against email threats.
Stay Safe Tip #4: Keep Software Up to Date
Staying current with software updates across a growing number of programs and devices can be a challenge, but it’s vital to protect against cyberthreats. Developers release updates not only to fix bugs but also to close security gaps based on the latest threat intelligence. When software is outdated, it becomes more vulnerable to malware and other attacks.
To maintain effective cyber hygiene, make it a habit to install updates as soon as they’re available. Encourage employees to allow updates to run on both their work and personal devices, reinforcing a culture of proactive security. It’s also important to understand which updates happen automatically and which require manual approval, so you can be confident that the latest protections are always in place.
Software Update Resources
Share your IT and security roadmap with our experts for insights on how to strengthen your infrastructure and stay ahead of evolving threats.
Build Cyber Skills through Interactive Training
Empower employees to spot and stop threats with gamified cybersecurity training. Fortra Human Risk Management uses hands-on, engaging exercises to help users recognize phishing and social engineering tactics and respond the right way.