A workshop was held on 13 October for the UHAS community via zoom on the theme “Cybersecurity Awareness in the Era of Covid-19” to drive home the need to secure the personal and work spaces on the internet.
Mr. Christian N. Ohene, a certified information systems auditor and a certified ethical hacker said the proliferation of the internet has made it easier for internet users to be exposed to total strangers. “When you use the internet, you may be connected to thousands of other computers that you exchange information and data with,” he said, and cautioned users to be extra vigilant in securing their information and privacy.
He said carelessness at the workplace could expose an entire organisation to criminals who would remotely access files and information: “Your computer can be used as a means to attack another person or reach top executives.” He, therefore, advised the participants to always ensure that their security settings have been adjusted, that they are using up-to-date operating systems, have enabled anti-virus software, and are staying away from suspicious online activities.
Mr. John Bosco Diekuu, a systems analyst and Head of E-Learning at UHAS, said the workshop has become necessary in an era where critical data is held digitally, and “making employers aware of cyber security measures allows them to learn how to reduce risks of potential breaches.”
He added that although cybercriminals are becoming smarter and more strategic by the day, many businesses and oganisations are not putting up the fight to safeguard their cyberspace: “It is up to you to protect your organization and ensure that it is investing in its security,” adding that boosting corporate security prevents a wide range of criminal activities likely to disrupt businesses of all sizes.”
Mr. Joseph Keteku, an I.T. security officer at UHAS, speaking on Personal and Home Security, called on participants to be more responsible for their personal security and that of their loved ones in order to avert danger. He said, “Being aware of potential security risks and taking early action is the best way to keep your home and loved ones safe,” and advised homeowners to install security cameras or CCTVs to improve their security.
He also said, children are easy targets on the internet and could be safeguarded through the set-up of parental controls on gadgets as well as abstaining from posting photos of these kids on social media..
