Chief of Naval Operations Urges Warfighters to Strengthen Cyber Defenses During Cybersecurity Awareness Month 2024

As Cybersecurity Awareness Month concludes, it’s crucial to reflect on the vital contributions of the Navy’s Cyber Warriors. Their insights are essential in fortifying our naval information and communication systems. Every individual within the Navy, from active-duty and reserve Sailors to civilian members, plays a pivotal role in preserving the Navy’s global supremacy in warfare capabilities.

Emerging cyber threats pose significant risks, escalating in complexity and frequency. These threats impact operational readiness and could hinder success in cyber-compromised environments. Thus, ensuring our data systems are secure, interoperable, and efficient in both peace and conflict is paramount for national defense.

Daily, adversaries attempt to exploit vulnerabilities in crucial defense systems. The responsibility lies with us to identify and minimize these weaknesses. Whether managing ships or shore-based operations, recognizing and mitigating cyber risks is critical. Vigilance is necessary—reporting and swiftly countering cyber threats is imperative.

Our personnel are our greatest asset in cybersecurity efforts. Sailors and civilians alike form the defense’s backbone, each contributing by maintaining strong cyber habits and staying informed on emerging threats. Empowering colleagues with knowledge fortifies our defensive capabilities.

Every decision, whether made at work, home, or during deployment, influences the integrity of naval information networks. It’s essential to make informed online choices to ensure the Navy’s readiness and operational security are uncompromised.

I urge everyone to remain vigilant and informed about the cyber landscape’s continual evolution. Collective awareness, education, and teamwork are crucial to maintaining the Navy’s—and the Nation’s—cybersecurity excellence.