As we start off the school year, it's important to remember that Cybersecurity is everyone's responsibility. Every email you review, every password you create, and every device you secure helps protect our students, staff, and school system from cyber threats. See the details below and the attached flyer for more.
Cybersecurity Best Practices for the New School Year
Think Before You Click
- Be cautious of unexpected emails, links, or attachments.
- Verify requests involving sensitive information or financial transactions.
- When in doubt, don't click—ask first.
Protect Your Credentials
- Never share your password.
- Use strong, unique passwords.
- Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) whenever available.
Practice Good Digital Hygiene
- Lock your computer whenever you step away.
- Keep devices updated.
- Handle student records and other confidential information carefully.
- Store files only in approved HCPSS locations.
Report Suspicious Emails Immediately
- If you receive a suspicious or phishing email, do not interact with it. Instead, forward the email immediately to abuse@hcpss.org
Call to Action: Complete Your Annual Cybersecurity Awareness Training
- All HCPSS staff are required to complete the Cybersecurity Awareness Training available in Vector at https://howard-md.safeschools.com/login (Staff Hub > Services dropdown > Vector Training)
If you have any questions or concerns regarding cybersecurity, believe you may have encountered a phishing email, or need assistance with a security-related issue, please contact Technology Support at TechSupport@hcpss.org or 410-313-7004.