Best defense? Good offense

Defending the Postal Service’s computer network from attack requires a good offense.

While the Corporate Information Security Office (CISO) leads the daily charge of defending the network, all contractors and employees — including Postmasters, retail associates, maintenance staff and others — play a role in protecting USPS systems from cyberthreats.

To keep the postal network secure — and to continue the principles highlighted during National Cybersecurity Awareness Month in October — CISO offers the following tips:

• Get trained. Take your assigned security training when it becomes available in HERO.

• Beware. Learn to avoid social engineering techniques, which cybercriminals often use to trick unsuspecting victims into sharing valuable information.

• Keep it secure. Poor cybersecurity behaviors — such as sharing passwords or connecting to the USPS network using someone else’s login information — can leave employees and the Postal Service vulnerable to cyberattacks.

• Be cautious. Cybercriminals often send convincing messages that appear to come from trustworthy organizations to con users into sharing passwords, account numbers and other information.

• Report it. If you receive a suspicious email or online message, don’t forward it. Instead, use the “Report to CyberSafe” button on the Outlook toolbar, call 866-877-7247 or send an email to CyberSafe@usps.gov to report it.

Employees can also play a larger role in securing the network by becoming a CyberSafe Guardian.

The CyberSafe at USPS Blue and LiteBlue pages have more information.