Dordt University highlights cybersecurity awareness efforts during Security Awareness Month

In recognition of National Security Awareness Month, Dordt University is continuing its work to prepare employees and students to recognize and respond to cybersecurity threats.

“Information security is everyone’s responsibility,” says Reed Munson, computer services compliance manager at Dordt. “Safe computing practices protect your online accounts and also safeguard the institution. Cybersecurity threats like phishing attacks can cause real harm—both for individuals and for organizations.”

To support this ongoing work, Dordt partners with KnowBe4, a leading provider of cybersecurity training. Faculty and staff engage in short, interactive video lessons followed by quizzes that test their knowledge. The system also allows Dordt to run simulated phishing campaigns, helping employees recognize and report suspicious emails.

“Similar to the way bank tellers are trained to spot counterfeit bills, we train our employees to identify the tricks hackers use in phishing attempts,” Munson explains. “If too many people are fooled by a test email, that tells us we need to step up our efforts with more targeted training.”

Phishing remains the most common entry point for hackers, who often use fraudulent emails to obtain sensitive information such as passwords, financial details, or personal data. These attacks can escalate, with criminals spoofing executives’ emails to trick staff into making unauthorized transactions.

Dordt University’s cybersecurity education extends to students as well. Computer Services uses on-campus digital signage, posters, and one-on-one conversations at the Help Desk to reinforce best practices. Security reminders are also incorporated into student orientation, ensuring new undergraduates begin their Dordt journey with a strong awareness of online safety.

Munson encourages everyone in the Dordt community to take simple but vital steps to protect their data:

• Use strong, unique passwords for each account.
• Enable two-factor authentication whenever possible.
• Avoid sending sensitive information through email.
• Keep software and operating systems up to date.

“Proactive awareness training gets everyone thinking about best security practices and safe data management,” says Munson.

Dordt’s recognition of Security Awareness Month reflects its commitment to ongoing cybersecurity education and vigilance.

About Dordt University

As an institution of higher education committed to the Reformed Christian perspective, Dordt University equips students, faculty, alumni, and the broader community to work toward Christ-centered renewal in all aspects of contemporary life. Located in Sioux Center, Iowa, Dordt is a comprehensive university named to the best college lists by U.S. News and World Report, the Wall Street Journal, Times Higher Education, Forbes.com, Washington Monthly, and Princeton Review.