October is National Cybersecurity Awareness Month, and a good time to learn about how cable operators are working to empower consumers and ensure that cyber threats don't get in the way of a user's online experience. The cable industry has long been committed to recognizing, identifying, and combatting cybersecurity threats in various ways, and as the Internet of Things (IoT) grows and technology advances, ISPs make it a priority to keep their customers safe online.
Even as new and exciting online experiences are improving people's lives each year, cybersecurity threats are a reality in our digital world. Some of these threats include:
- Viruses
- Phishing Scams
- Ransomware
- Identity Theft
- Fraud
- Botnet Attacks
Fortunately, as the industry works toward building 10G, the connectivity platform of the future, to accommodate the increasing bandwidth demands of consumers, efforts are also underway to develop standards that will protect the delivery of increased user data and video content across cable networks.
Just a couple of examples include an approached developed by CableLabs, the industry's R&D consortium. CableLabs recently introduced Micronets—a network security framework that involves segregating network-connected devices into distinct sub-networks in order to automatically quarantine compromised devices. Key players in the industry are also collaborating with the National Institute of Standards and Technology and the Communications Sector Coordinating Council to establish and share best practices that improve the security of today's networks, and that effectively reduce botnet attacks.
Cable ISPs also offer a plethora of free anti-virus software, security products, and services designed to safeguard users and their personal information, while sending them alerts of dangers lurking online. Consumers can find a wealth of this information, including online safety advice, tools, and resources, located on the FAM (Family and Media) site, a collaborative industry website that aims to help users and families manage their internet and television usage. The site hosts information related to how users can manage their own privacy, tips on creating strong passwords, and how parents can help their kids maintain a positive reputation online. The "In Case You Missed It" video series is also a staple on the site and showcases the latest websites, apps, and products for family online and media activity management.
Check back for more updates in the coming weeks on the industry's latest efforts to reduce cybersecurity threats so that consumers can focus on maximizing all of the benefits that the internet has to offer.