St. George, UT – Recent cyberattacks targeting St. George businesses and Box Elder County government systems demonstrate that cyber threats aren’t just problems for large corporations, they’re happening right here in Utah. Christopher Hartman, Information Technology instructor specializing in cybersecurity at Dixie Technical College, explains why everyone needs to take digital security seriously and offers practical steps to stay protected.
“Most hackers don’t care WHO you are,” Hartman explained. “There are two types of hackers: skilled hackers targeting big businesses or banks, and opportunistic hackers who have no skill and go after everyone and anyone. Usually the motive is linked to money.”
How Social Engineering Drives Most Attacks
The biggest vulnerability isn’t technology, it’s people. “90% of all hacks happen because of social engineering,” Hartman noted. “It only takes one employee of a school or company to let the entire organization get hacked.”
Social media account hacks occur all the time because attackers already have usernames and only need passwords. Once they gain access, they message contacts pretending to be the account owner, often requesting money or donations. People trust messages from known contacts, making these scams particularly effective.
Phishing emails remain another common attack vector. Clicking on malicious links or sharing authentication codes with attackers provides them exactly what they need to compromise accounts.
Why Cybersecurity Matters More Today
The threat of hackers and scams continues to grow. “Cybersecurity and staying safe is more important today than it was years ago because we have more technology today versus five years ago, and it grows,” Hartman emphasized.
Some people operate under the dangerous misconception: “I’m not a target. I don’t have anything of value.” “That’s a myth because anyone’s a target,” Hartman warned.
Five Essential Habits for Online Safety
Hartman recommends five practical steps everyone should implement:
- Use a Password Manager: Password managers like LastPass securely store unique passwords for every account, eliminating the need to remember dozens of credentials.
- Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): 2FA adds a critical security layer, requiring both password and authentication codes for account access.
- Never Recycle Passwords: Using the same password across multiple accounts means one breach compromises everything. Creating unique passwords for each service limits damage from any single attack.
- Use a VPN on Public Networks: Virtual Private Networks protect data when connecting to unsecured wireless networks at hotels, airports, or restaurants. Attackers on public networks can inject malware or capture sensitive information from unprotected devices.
- Install Antivirus Software: Antivirus protection, often bundled with VPN services, provides essential defense against malware and malicious software.
Additional Security Measures
Regular software updates close security vulnerabilities that attackers exploit. While updates may seem inconvenient, they patch critical weaknesses in operating systems and applications.
Web scams through fake advertisements also pose threats. Legitimate-looking ads can lead to malicious websites designed to steal information or install malware.
Hands-On Cybersecurity Training at Dixie Tech
The Information Technology program at Dixie Technical College provides students with practical cybersecurity experience through real-world labs and scenarios. Students learn to identify attacks like cross-site scripting (XSS), set up “evil twin” rogue wireless networks to understand how attackers trick victims, practice password cracking and port scanning, configure firewalls, attempt to take over network switches, and conduct social engineering research.
“The social engineering research lab is eye-opening to students to realize all the info posted online can be used for bad and all of it is traceable and trackable,” Hartman noted.
This hands-on approach prepares graduates for immediate employment. “It’s a great foundation to start and use to grow their skillset,” Hartman explained. Graduates typically begin in help desk or support roles, network support positions, or junior administrator and system administrator roles, with clear pathways for career advancement.
Taking Action
As cyber threats continue evolving and affecting local communities, implementing basic security habits becomes increasingly essential. Strong passwords, two-factor authentication, careful email practices, and awareness of social engineering tactics provide meaningful protection against the most common attacks.
Whether protecting personal accounts or preparing for cybersecurity careers, education and vigilance remain the best defenses against digital threats.
About Dixie Technical College
Dixie Technical College provides students with training that enables them to master essential, hands-on skills they can take directly to the workforce, empowering them to support their families, strengthen the community, and contribute to local industry while advancing their careers. Dixie Tech offers over 25 accredited hands-on programs in fields like healthcare, manufacturing, transportation, construction, culinary, and computer technologies.
Learn more about the Information Technology program at dixietech.edu/programs.
