SECURE SOCIAL: SAFEGUARDING THE DIGITAL YOU
ADVOCACY CAMPAIGN
In partial fulfillment to
Global Identity and Citizenship
GROUP 4
Gutierrez, Divina Andrea C.
Labrador, Mark Shane M.
Laguras, Jamcee
Maderazo, Jannah A.
Mansit, Lemuel M.
BSA 2-1
OCTOBER 2023
I. THE BACKGROUND
Cybersecurity is an increasingly critical field in today's digital age, as the number of
cyberattacks continues to rise at an alarming rate. According to Cybersecurity Statistics (2023),
there are approximately 800,000 cyberattacks per year, a number that is predicted to increase
annually. These attacks exploit vulnerabilities in various platforms, with an alarming 97% of
security breaches targeting WordPress plugins. The frequency of these attacks is staggering,
with a threat actor targeting a business's cybersecurity infrastructure every 39 seconds. The
creation of new malware is also on the rise, with an estimated 300,000 new malware being
developed daily. It is worth noting that email remains a popular delivery method for malware,
with 92% of malware being delivered through this channel. In addition, organizations are facing
significant challenges in identifying and responding to cyberattacks, taking an average of 49
days to detect them. These attacks are not limited to a few websites, as over 4.1 million
websites on the Internet are infected with malware. These statistics highlight the urgent need for
robust cybersecurity measures to protect individuals, businesses, and organizations from the
ever-evolving threats in the digital landscape.
In today's interconnected world, cybersecurity has become a critical concern. With the
increasing reliance on digital platforms, it is essential to raise awareness about the importance
of safeguarding our digital lives. The advocacy campaign, "Secure Social," aims to educate
individuals about the issue, its causes, and effects, and propose effective solutions to ensure a
safer digital environment. The rapid advancement of technology has brought numerous benefits,
but it has also exposed us to various cybersecurity threats. Cybercriminals exploit vulnerabilities
in our digital lives, leading to severe consequences for individuals, businesses, and society as a
whole. The lack of awareness and preparedness among users makes them easy targets for
cyberattacks.
One of the main causes of cybersecurity breaches is a lack of awareness among
individuals. Many people are unaware of the potential risks and consequences associated with
cybersecurity breaches, making them more susceptible to attacks. Another contributing factor is
the use of weak and easily guessable passwords. People often choose passwords that are
simple and easy to remember, but this also makes it easier for hackers to gain unauthorized
access to their accounts. Phishing attacks are another common cause of cybersecurity
breaches. Cybercriminals use deceptive tactics to trick individuals into revealing sensitive
information, such as login credentials or financial details. Additionally, failure to update software
and operating systems regularly is a major vulnerability. Outdated software leaves security holes
unpatched, making it easier for hackers to exploit them.
Lastly, insufficient cybersecurity measures contribute to breaches. Many individuals do
not employ adequate security measures, such as antivirus software or firewalls, leaving their
devices and data vulnerable to attacks. The effects of cybersecurity breaches can be
devastating. One of the most common consequences is identity theft, where cybercriminals
steal personal information, resulting in financial loss, damaged credit scores, and reputational
damage. Additionally, unauthorized access to bank accounts or credit card information can lead
to financial fraud, causing significant financial losses for individuals and businesses alike. Data
breaches are also a major concern, as sensitive information such as personal data, trade
secrets, or intellectual property can be stolen or leaked, causing severe damage to individuals
and organizations. Furthermore, cyberattacks can disrupt critical infrastructure, businesses, and
public services, resulting in economic losses and inconvenience for individuals. Therefore, it is
crucial for individuals and organizations to prioritize cybersecurity measures to mitigate these
detrimental effects.
II. THE CAMPAIGN SOLUTION
One solution for cybersecurity is to implement a comprehensive education and
awareness campaign. This campaign would involve conducting webinars and awareness
campaigns to educate individuals about cybersecurity best practices. This includes teaching
individuals how to create strong passwords, recognize phishing attempts, and secure personal
information. Another important aspect of this campaign would be to encourage individuals to
regularly update their software and operating systems to ensure they have the latest security
patches. Additionally, promoting the use of two-factor authentication (2FA) as an additional layer
of security to protect online accounts from unauthorized access would be essential. Safe
browsing habits, such as avoiding suspicious websites, downloading content from trusted
sources, and being cautious while sharing personal information online, should also be
advocated. Lastly, promoting responsible digital citizenship by encouraging responsible online
behavior, respecting privacy, reporting suspicious activities, and supporting initiatives that
enhance cybersecurity would be crucial. By implementing these measures, we can address
financial fraud, data breaches, and disrupted operations caused by cyberattacks, ultimately
enhancing cybersecurity for individuals and organizations.
To conclude, The "Secure Social" advocacy campaign aims to create a safer digital environment
by raising awareness about cybersecurity threats, their causes, and the potential
consequences. By educating individuals and promoting best practices, we can collectively
safeguard our digital lives, protect sensitive information, and mitigate the risks associated with
cyberattacks. Together, let's secure our digital future and ensure a safer online experience for
all.
III. REFERENCES
239 Cybersecurity Statistics (2023). Retrieved October 7, 2023 from
https://www.packetlabs.net/posts/239-cybersecurity-statistics-2023/
What is a Cyberattack? | IBM. (n.d.). Retrieved October 8, 2023 from
https://www.ibm.com/topics/cyber-attack
National Cybersecurity Alliance (2023). Share with Care: Staying Safe on Social Media.
National Cybersecurity Alliance. Retrieved October 8, 2023 from
https://staysafeonline.org/resources/social-media/?fbclid=IwAR0WajZaFmgecPK6WeTlDvwksP
_v0Oj4z7fHUzphbb-ekkuXC8uJJ207npY
