October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month — a time to educate ourselves about cybersecurity and access resources to enhance personal and organizational practices.
Here are five ways to protect yourself from cybersecurity threats:
Use two-factor authentication: Whenever possible, enable two-factor authentication (2FA). Think of it as adding a second lock to your door — an extra layer of security to keep intruders out.
Avoid reusing passwords: Reusing the same passwords across multiple sites is like using the same key for all your locks. Create unique passwords for each website to minimize risk.
Choose secure 2FA methods: When given multiple options for 2FA, avoid using SMS or email. Apps like Microsoft Authenticator and Google Authenticator offer stronger protection.
Do not click suspicious links: If an email or text message seems too good to be true, it probably is. Avoid clicking on suspicious links, and always verify the sender's identity before engaging.
Keep your software updated: Regularly updating your devices including computers, phones, and smart devices is like giving your technology a health check-up. Updates include security patches that protect against the latest threats.
The importance of cybersecurity in the construction industry
The cybersecurity landscape is always evolving. What protects your data today may not be enough tomorrow. For construction companies, staying informed about emerging technologies and potential threats is critical to maintaining a robust cybersecurity program.
At Southland, we prioritize the confidentiality of both customer and employee data — especially for our federal and mission critical projects. Our clients trust us with sensitive information like blueprints, contracts, and personal data, and it is our responsibility to ensure their data remains secure.
As part of our cybersecurity program, we focus on protecting this information and educating our personnel on best practices. By collaborating with internal teams and external clients, we continuously find effective ways to stay ahead of cybersecurity risks and safeguard the data entrusted to us.
Associate Director of Enterprise Security
Josh brings over 15 years of experience in systems engineering and integration, specializing in cybersecurity. As Associate Director of Enterprise Security, he works with internal and external clients to safeguard data privacy and security. Josh is passionate about enhancing cybersecurity within the construction industry and emphasizes the importance of staying ahead of emerging trends.
