October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month, and North Dakota Information Technology (NDIT) is helping North Dakotans strengthen their digital defenses with simple steps that can make a big difference.
Throughout the month, NDIT’s Stay Cyber SMART campaign will share practical ways people can better protect themselves, their information, and the digital services they rely on every day.
The campaign comes alongside Gov. Kelly Armstrong’s official proclamation recognizing October 2026 as Cybersecurity Awareness Month in North Dakota, reinforcing the state’s commitment to cybersecurity and protecting North Dakotans in an increasingly connected world. It also aligns with the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency’s (CISA) Securing the Next 250 theme as the nation celebrates its iconic anniversary.
Cybersecurity isn’t just a technology issue. It’s something all of us play a role in,
said Chris Gergen, Chief Information Security Officer for the State of North Dakota. A few simple habits can go a long way toward protecting your accounts, your personal information, and the people and organizations you interact with online.
The Stay Cyber SMART campaign focuses on five everyday cybersecurity habits:
- Set strong, unique passwords.
- Make multifactor authentication a habit.
- Avoid risky links, attachments, and senders.
- Regularly do software and device updates.
- Take care with personal info.
Throughout October, NDIT will share weekly cybersecurity tips, educational resources, and social media content designed to make cybersecurity easier to understand and put into practice.
Cybersecurity is a shared responsibility,
Gergen added. By embracing Stay Cyber SMART, we’re not just protecting ourselves—we’re protecting our neighbors, our communities, and the services North Dakotans rely on every day.
NDIT encourages North Dakotans to use Cybersecurity Awareness Month as an opportunity to check their digital habits, make a few simple changes, and Stay Cyber SMART throughout October and all year long.