The King County Council announced Monday that as we become more cyber dependent, citizens need to take the necessary steps to protect their electronic records, a release from the council stated.

This comes at the same time the County Council proclaimed October to be Cyber Security Awareness Month.

The release stated the proclamation is in conjunction with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and with the National Cyber Security Alliance.

“Every year cyber security becomes a more serious issue as it impacts so many aspects of our lives. Our world is increasingly connected through cyberspace and therefore we are more vulnerable, financially, in our infrastructure and our health care. It’s imperative that everyone be more vigilant and aware,” said Councilwoman Kathy Lambert, the sponsor of the proclamation.

The release added that the county is also promoting the national “Stop. Think.Connect.” campaign offering tips for businesses, organizations and individuals to keep their online information secure.

For more information visit www.stopthinkconnect.org or www.staysafeonline.org.