9
Seconds
for a
Safer
World

9 Seconds for a Safer World

Cyber threats are everywhere. And getting sneakier. What can you do to protect yourself, your community and our nation? Take a 9 second pause and think before you click, download, share. A short pause goes a long way.

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The Power of Positive Pause

Illustration of a head with multiple eyes representing awareness

If something seems off or too good to be true, it usually is. Trust your cyber senses. Protect yourself and others. Just Take9—pause for 9 seconds.

Why 9?

Science says: In stressful situations, wait 10 seconds before responding.

Marketing says: 9 seconds sounds more doable than 10 seconds, just like 99¢ sounds a whole lot cheaper than $1.00.

We believe 9 seconds ought to do it—not too long, not too hard, but time enough to make a better decision.

Illustration of a head with multiple eyes representing awareness

Discover what you can do

Use Unique, Strong Passwords

Every device and website login should have a long, unique and complex password that includes a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols (e.g., "SunnyDay!1948").

Update passwords every 6-12 months or immediately after a security breach. Use a Password Manager An app used to generate, store, and manage passwords securely. to securely store, organize, and generate strong passwords for all your accounts, keeping them safe and accessible.

Update Your
Software A collection of programs and data that tell a computer how to perform specific tasks.

Software updates fix security vulnerabilities hackers can exploit. Install updates promptly to protect personal and community information.

Here’s how to enable auto security updates for Apple, Android, Mac and Windows.

Enable MFA
Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) A log-in process that requires two or more pieces of evidence to authenticate someone’s identity.

Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second verification step after your password, like a code from an app or email. Avoid text message verification, as it's more vulnerable to interception.

For Stronger Security Better security for your devices that hold sensitive personal information like your phone number, bank accounts, or passwords. , use an Authenticator App An app to help confirm a user's identity more securely. to protect your account—even if your password is stolen

Join Our Community

Stay up to date to keep yourself, your community, and your country safe.

(Just remember to pause for 9 seconds—and Take9 before you sign!)

We take care so you can safely share.