Have you thought about how your cyber habits have evolved this year?
In 2024, the Yale Information Security Office focused on helping our community build stronger, safer cyber habits—because staying cyber-safe is a journey, not a destination. As we look back, this year was one of growth, collaboration, and creativity, with exciting strides made in engaging the Yale community around cybersecurity awareness.
Here’s how we’ve been buzzing toward a safer cyber environment for everyone at Yale!
Quarterly Cyber Challenges
Last January, we kicked off our New Year, New You campaign by introducing a 21-day habit challenge to encourage the Yale community to adopt one new cybersecurity habit at a time. We built momentum in May and July when we shifted to a quarterly challenge to engage faculty, staff, and students in bite-sized activities that make a big impact. The shift from a 21-day challenge to shorter, more frequent events proved a great way to build and sustain strong cyber habits throughout the year.
Bee Cyber Fit at Yale: The essentials to working securely
Cybersecurity Awareness Month in October marked the launch of our first-ever self-paced training course, Bee Cyber Fit at Yale: The Essentials to Working Securely. This foundational course empowers all Yale faculty, staff, and students with essential knowledge to protect Yale’s data, systems, and mission. It’s the perfect first step in understanding how each of us plays a vital role in securing teaching, learning, and research at Yale.
Expanding the Cybersecurity Awareness Ambassador Program
This year, we expanded the Cybersecurity Awareness Ambassador Program, a key initiative for building a culture of cyber safety across Yale. Our Ambassadors, who volunteer their time and energy, play a critical role in amplifying key cybersecurity messages and inspiring action within their teams and departments. By sharing best practices and promoting awareness campaigns, they help us make cybersecurity a shared responsibility.
Looking ahead, we’re excited to welcome new members to our Ambassador team in 2025! If you’re passionate about cybersecurity and want to help make a difference at Yale, keep an eye out for opportunities to join this impactful program.
Building Department Connections
We prioritized strengthening relationships with departments across campus to empower teams to be cyber-safe. Through interactive team experiences and our engaging trivia game, we made learning about cybersecurity fun and memorable. Our new Awareness Menu of Services lets departments choose activities tailored to their needs, making it easier than ever to build enthusiasm and knowledge within teams.
Creating Buzz with Boola the Cyber Bee
This year also marked the debut of Boola, our life-sized cyber bee mascot, who has been turning heads and sparking conversations at campus events. Boola brings energy and fun to cybersecurity awareness, reminding everyone that staying safe online doesn’t have to be dull.
Looking Ahead: Building on a Strong Foundation
2024 was a year of progress, fun, and community engagement, but we know the work isn’t done. Together, we’ve built strong foundations, and there’s so much more to accomplish as we continue to enhance Yale’s cybersecurity awareness.
Want to empower your team to be cyber-safe? Complete the Cybersecurity Engagement Request form and explore how we can support your department with tailored services and resources.
Thank you for being a vital part of keeping Yale safe. Together, we’re building a stronger, more secure community. Here’s to even greater achievements in 2025!