Cybersecurity Awareness Month: More Than a Slice of Awareness

October 21, 2025
Cybersecurity Awareness Month highlights a problem: one-month campaigns don't create lasting change. Learn why year-round org engagement and training are essential for building real security habits.
Wolfgang Goerlich, IANS Faculty

When October arrives, many organizations turn their attention to Security Awareness Month—but let's be honest: if we called it "Pizza Appreciation Month,", also in October, it might garner more attention and generate more excitement. This juxtaposition highlights a larger issue: "awareness" implies a more passive state than companies need when it comes to cybersecurity.

 

DOWNLOAD NOW: Security Awareness Blog Templates

As highlighted in this video by IANS Faculty Wolfgang Goerlich, Cybersecurity Awareness Month focuses on a single month and urges everyone to be aware. Security leaders and practitioners should aim to inspire active behavioral change that leads to meaningful action throughout an organization. 

 

 

The reality is, making cybersecurity resonate requires a year-round commitment. Cybersecurity must be woven into the fabric of monthly training and regular engagement. Only through sustained, practical activities can we transform awareness into lasting habits. Continuous programs that keep security top-of-mind, partner-driven activities to build momentum, and creative efforts that make engagement enjoyable—maybe even as enjoyable as pizza! Most importantly, shifting from short-term awareness toward long-term action will fortify your organization’s defenses all year long, not just in October.

READ MORE: 10 Cybersecurity Training Tips for Security Awareness Month 2025

So this October, let’s appreciate pizza—but let’s also rethink how we engage people in cybersecurity. After all, real security starts with real, ongoing awareness. Take cybersecurity action now and download our expert guide: Modernize Your Phishing Program to Address Ransomware.

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