The world changes fast, yet technology evolves even faster. While technology today provides great benefits such as being able to conduct business on the go, it also creates more risks. Cyber threats, which are criminal or unethical activities that take place online, have completely changed the cyber frontier landscape. So how do organizations like the Postal Service™ move safely forward in this new cyber frontier? By understanding the cyber trends that pose the greatest threat to organizations nationwide.
On October 10, 2019, the Postal Service is hosting a National Cybersecurity Awareness Month event at USPS® headquarters in Washington, D.C. from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. For more information, visit niccs.us-cert.gov/national-cybersecurity-awareness-month-2019. For other locations, the event will be livestreamed at uspslive.usps.gov/#/login. It’s a great opportunity to gain insight into these trends, learn about cybersecurity best practices, and get tips like these:
n Secure it. Secure your USPS-issued electronic devices through encryption, passphrases, and the use of a virtual private network, or VPN.
n Separate for security. For business purposes, use only USPS-issued equipment, laptops, and phones at work, and use a wall outlet to charge them.
n Don’t install unauthorized software. Applications like “WhatsApp” or other social media applications are not allowed on USPS-issued electronic devices.
n Protect Postal Service data. Keep data protection in the forefront of your thoughts at all times. Do not store sensitive and sensitive-enhanced materials to your USPS-issued assets, unless explicitly authorized to do so.
n Beware of tricksters. Whether by email, text message, or voicemail, cybercriminals are hoping to trick you into giving away sensitive information. Don’t let them use your technology against you.
Remember, these tips are not only relevant to your work environment — they can also protect your home and family.
For more information on managing the new cyber frontier, see Chapter 5 of Handbook AS-805, Information Security, at about.usps.com/handbooks/as805/as805c5_001.htm.
To report a cybersecurity incident, contact the CyberSafe at USPS® team by calling 866-877-7247 or sending an email to CyberSafe@usps.gov. For general cybersecurity information, visit the CyberSafe at USPS websites on Blue (blue.usps.gov/cyber/) and LiteBlue (liteblue.usps.gov/cyber/).
— Corporate Information Security Office,
Chief Information Security Officer
and Digital Solutions, 10-10-19
