Time to Spring Ahead!
Daylight Saving Time (DST) is just around the corner! Yes, we may lose an hour of sleep, but in return, we gain more daylight in our evenings—signaling the arrival of warmer days and longer sunsets. But beyond adjusting our clocks, this shift in time also serves as a great opportunity to check in on our digital security.
What is Daylight Saving Time?
Daylight Saving Time (DST) is the practice of moving clocks forward by one hour in the spring and back by one hour in the fall to maximize daylight during waking hours. Originally intended to reduce energy consumption by minimizing artificial lighting in the evenings, DST continues to be observed in many regions worldwide.
When Does DST Begin?
DST officially starts at 2 a.m. on Sunday, March 9. Be sure to set any manual clocks and devices that don’t update automatically before heading to bed on Saturday night.
On Sunday morning, as we groggily start our day, some of us will be met with microwave and analog alarm clocks still stuck in the past. While this minor inconvenience is easily fixed, DST can also bring about more significant disruptions—especially when it comes to technology and cybersecurity.
A Subtle Security Risk
While DST itself doesn’t pose a direct cybersecurity threat, the time change can lead to confusion, system misconfigurations, and lapses in security protocols. If you rely on older software, legacy devices, or systems that don’t automatically adjust for DST, you may need to manually update them to prevent scheduling disruptions or potential security vulnerabilities.
Additionally, losing an hour of sleep may make us more prone to human error—whether it’s falling for phishing emails, using weak passwords, or overlooking important updates. Hackers are always on the lookout for vulnerabilities, and any deviation from routine can create opportunities for exploitation. Issues such as delayed security patches, timestamp inconsistencies, or system errors could weaken defenses, providing cybercriminals with an entry point.
By staying proactive, we can embrace the extra daylight without compromising our security.
Wishing you a brighter—and safer—season ahead!
