Information Technology - Cyber Security Training

Why are we completing Cyber Security Training?

Cybersecurity is important because it helps protect our personal information from being stolen or misused. Every time we go online—whether it's to shop, chat with friends, or check our bank account—we share bits of our private data. Hackers and cybercriminals try to steal this information to commit fraud or identity theft. Cybersecurity acts like a digital lock, keeping our data safe from these threats.

It’s especially important for businesses like Cheshire that store customer and personnel data, rely on digital systems or operate online.

If a company gets hacked, it can lose money, damage its reputation, and even face legal trouble. For example, if a Cheshire's computer system is attacked, it could delay consumer care. That’s why companies invest in strong cybersecurity measures like firewalls, antivirus software, and employee training.

Therefore, Cheshire is obligated to have Cyber Insurance. A qualification of this insurance is ongoing Cyber Security training.

Cyber insurance is a type of insurance policy that helps protect individuals and businesses from the financial impact of cyberattacks and data breaches. Just like ca insurance helps cover costs after an accident, cyber insurance helps cover costs after a cyber incident.

Cyber insurance typically covers:

• Data Breaches: if sensitive consumer or employee data is stolen, the policy can help pay for notification costs, credit monitoring, and legal fees.
• Business Interruption: if a cyberattack shuts down your operations, insurance can help cover lost income during the downtime.
• Cyber Extortion: if hackers demand a ransom (like in a ransomware attack), the policy may cover the ransom payment and recovery costs.
• Legal and Regulatory Costs: if you’re sued or fined due to a data breach, cyber insurance can help with legal defense and settlement costs.

Finally, cybersecurity is essential for national safety. Governments use it to protect important systems like power grids, airports, and military networks. If these systems were attacked, it could cause serious problems for an entire country. So, whether it's for individuals, businesses, or nations, cybersecurity helps keep our digital world safe and running smoothly.

How is Cybersecurity Training working so far at Cheshire?

We implemented Cybersecurity training at Cheshire in the fall of 2024. We have since conducted three successful campaigns throughout the organization with a 93% average completion rate. Survey feedback has been well received:

“quick presentation done in an easy process manner”

“loved the example of the deep fake AI impersonating the boss really opens the eyes to how diligent one needs to be!”

“Great information – very detailed and easy to understand”

“we need more content on more ways to avoid these scams”

“quick and informative”

Future Goals

Cheshire will be continuing on with regular campaigns, visiting programs and demonstrating the website for you to utilize freely outside of campaigns, targeting departments for specific training and participating in National Cyber Security Month for the second year in a row. 

Let’s Talk: Financial Stress and Support for Staff

We know the past few years have brought many personal and professional challenges, and for many, financial stress remains one of the biggest burdens. Whether you’re on the frontlines or supporting behind the scenes in administration, the rising cost of living, unexpected expenses, or even just making ends meet can take a serious toll on your mental well-being. You’re not alone in feeling this way.

You’re not expected to carry this stress alone. Support is available.

All Cheshire employees have access to Ceridian LifeWorks Employee Assistance Program (EAP) – a free, confidential resource for help with:

·      Managing stress and anxiety

·      Financial and legal guidance

·      Mental health and emotional well-being

·      Everyday challenges

Please do not hesitate to reach out and use these resources. Taking care of yourself is not a luxury – it’s essential. And it’s okay to ask for help.

We’re in this together,

-      The Cheshire Team

Meet Your Neighbour - Welcome to the Cheshire Team!

Anna B., Accounting Assistant

Originally from Ukraine, Anna, her husband, and twin sons moved to Canada more than 20 years ago. Her country was going through significant political changes, and they knew the time was right to leave for a better life. Anna shares that they feel safe and comfortable living in Canada.

Anna has always worked in the finance world. Graduating from Business Administration in Ukraine, she was able to send her paperwork to Canada, and after completing some additional courses at the University of Toronto, she obtained her Canadian bachelor's degree in Business Administration. Her learning has not ended, she recently finished additional courses in accounting and HR Block Taxes. 

Anna’s husband is a qualified swim coach and opened a successful competitive swim club business for kids 6-18. Anna has been sharing her skills but doing all of the accounting for the business. In the last two years, Anna has worked as an Accounting Assistant temporarily during busy tax seasons.

In her free time, Anna likes to stay away from screens. She is an avid reader and likes to do paper crafts to give as personal gifts.

When asked what brought her to Cheshire, Anna shared that she was drawn to the work of the organization. In Ukraine, people with disabilities were treated differently, not as independent and certainly without all of the supports as they have here.  

Taylor M., Staff Educator

Originally from London, Taylor left for 10 years to pursue her education as a Registered Practical Nurse and work in Hamilton. She worked as an RPN in various areas of acute care at Hamilton Health Sciences hospital for 7 years, then later at McMaster University in their on-site student medical department.

Taylor returned to be closer to her family and friends in London in October 2024. 

When asked what brought her to the Staff Educator role at Cheshire, she shared that she is excited to move into a more administrative role as a nurse. Her front-line nursing has given her the tools and ability to make a stronger impact, do more and help a broader spectrum of people.

In her free time, Taylor listens to old school vinyl records, especially jazz, disco and 70s music, all of which fills her heart.

Taylor shares her home with her two dachshunds, Lewis and Clark. They love all things outdoors, especially hikes.

Taylor has been learning how to identify different trees during their outings.

Kristian H., Executive Assistant

Originally from Vancouver, Kristian’s family moved to London when he was 4 years old. He grew up with two cats named Bear-who had a nose that looked like a bear and Marley-for Bob Marley.

Kristian shares his newly purchased home with his girlfriend and cat Kreese. 

They are still unpacking, but also recently learned that Kreese has become a lover of all cords!

Working in the non-profit sector, Kristian was familiar with some Cheshire and Central Intake employees. He moved into the homeless sector and found himself looking for a more specialized role where he could use his skills. 

When Kristian is not working, he remains busy on his new home but also finds time to relax with video games. Recently, he invested in a new street bike hoping to ride the trails of the Thames as the weather gets nicer.

When asked what brought him to Cheshire, Kristian shared that working in the non-profit sector is important to him. Both from moral/ethical perspective but to also feel like he is contributing to society. He wants to feel that he is making a difference.

In his words … “be a force multiplier to the front line, to excel to do the absolute best job.”

Adrienne Vanderweg, Project Manager

Originally from Lucan, Adrienne and her family moved to London for a short time while her 3 sons were involved with various sports. They realized Lucan was where their roots were, so they moved back.

Adrienne shares her home with her husband and two Boston Terriers named Lana and Lewis.

With 30 years of experience in Health Care, Community Health Care/Community Support Service Sector. She comes to Cheshire with a great deal of knowledge in various roles, including scheduling, manager and trainer. Her most life-changing moment came in her first CSS role, where she first-hand experienced the barriers and challenges that many individuals with disabilities face. Adrienne realized that basic needs were going unmet and knew she wanted to make a difference; her experience highlighted barriers that exist in certain populations. From food cupboards/groceries to helping the visually impaired read and write letters, she found her place. She still recalls a time when she held BBQs and how happy a burger can make a person feel, in her words, “such joy that makes a meaningful impact doesn’t have to be giant.”

When asked what brought her to Cheshire, Adrienne shared that throughout the years in her healthcare career, there has always been interaction with Cheshire, from a partner and funder perspective. She knows the culture and leadership, when the opportunity presented itself, she knew she wanted to be a part of the organization.

In her spare time, Adrienne has a quarter horse named Holly that she rides along the trails not far from her home on her family’s farm. In the nice weather, she enjoys gardening and lounging by the poolside.