Protecting Watsonville: A Focus on cybersecurity
As Watsonville grows and evolves, safeguarding the digital systems and data our community relies on is paramount. This October, during National Cybersecurity Awareness Month, I want to share how the City of Watsonville is strengthening its digital defenses and how residents can protect themselves and their families.
This year, the city was awarded a state cybersecurity grant dedicated to bolstering our internal systems. These funds are being strategically invested in protecting critical infrastructure, providing essential cybersecurity training for city staff, and implementing modern security tools like multi-factor authentication.
Multi-factor authentication adds a crucial layer of security to logins, requiring verification beyond just a password – frequently enough through a code sent to your phone or a dedicated app.This simple step significantly reduces the risk of unauthorized access.
Cybersecurity isn’t simply about protecting computers; it’s about protecting people. A successful cyberattack could disrupt essential city services, impact residents’ ability to pay bills or obtain permits, and even jeopardize vital services like water, energy, and emergency response. We approach cybersecurity with the same long-term commitment and investment as we do public safety, infrastructure, and overall community well-being.
Residents can take proactive steps to enhance their own digital security:
Create strong,unique passwords for every online account.
Enable multi-factor authentication wherever possible, particularly for email, banking, and social media.
Keep your devices and software updated to benefit from the latest security patches.
Regularly back up crucial files and install reputable antivirus software. Exercise caution with unsolicited calls, texts, or emails from unknown sources.
The holiday season unfortunately sees a surge in cybercriminal activity, often through deceptive tactics like phishing emails, vishing phone calls, and smishing text messages. These scams often appear legitimate, mimicking delivery notifications, bank alerts, or even official government communications.
If you encounter a suspicious message or call, remember:
Do not click on links or share personal information immediately.
Navigate directly to trusted sources – official websites or known customer service numbers – to verify the information.
Be alert for red flags such as poor grammar, a sense of urgency, or requests for gift cards or money.
Discuss the situation with a trusted friend or family member before taking any action.
If you believe you’ve been targeted by a scam, or have unfortunately fallen victim, please report it to the Federal Trade Commission at reportfraud.ftc.gov. Reporting helps protect others and contributes to a safer online surroundings.
Here in Watsonville, we are dedicated to fostering a culture of cybersecurity - one that protects our city’s operations and empowers our residents.Just as we prepare for natural disasters, we must also prepare for the evolving landscape of digital threats. By remaining vigilant and informed, we can safeguard our families, our community, and our city’s future.Your safety, both in our neighborhoods and online, is my top priority as your mayor. By working together and staying informed, we can ensure Watsonville remains a safe, resilient, and thriving community.
maria Orozco is the mayor of Watsonville. This column was written in collaboration with the city of Watsonville IT Department.*
