October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month. Now is the perfect time to be reminded of how to keep yourself safe online and avoid falling victim to scams. Here are the top five cybersecurity tips to stay safe:
- Set Strong Passwords
One of the most common ways for hackers to break into accounts is simply by guessing passwords. A strong password should contain a mixture of uppercase letters, lowercase letters, numbers and symbols where allowed. Ideally, you should set a different password for everything.
- Step Logins
After entering your password, you might be asked to answer security questions or sent a text message containing a code. Once you successfully answer the questions or enter the code, you'll get access to your account. This stops anyone who manages to hack your password from entering your account without the second step login.
- Keep Your Devices Protected
It's easier to hack into devices that aren't kept up to date. Software updates often contain security patches to fix any weak spots. Don't delay installing updates to your phone, tablet or computer.
- Be Careful Clicking on Unidentified Links
Phishing scams are some of the most commonly fallen for online scams. If you receive an email with a link that takes you to a website that looks superficially legitimate, be careful of clicking on these links. Oftentimes you are then prompted to enter your email address and password along with other sensitive data like your bank details or credit card number. This gives all the access to scammers that they need to potentially spend your money or transfer money out of your account.
- Don’t use unsecured public Wi-Fi
When using your smartphone or computer in public places, you may be tempted to connect to a free Wi-Fi hotspot. If that free hotspot is unsecured and you connect your phone to it, nearby hackers could help themselves to your data — websites visited, messages and apps with saved passwords. For this reason, it’s best to avoid public, unsecured networks and connect cautiously.
In addition to taking the necessary precautions to keep yourself safe and secure online, there are a few questions to be wary of that scammers use often to convince users to give out their confidential and sensitive information. Here are the top 3 questions your credit union will NEVER ask:
- We will NEVER ask for your passwords or access to your computer/phone.
- We will NEVER email you asking for personal or account information unless initiated by you.
- We will NEVER solicit you by phone or electronic device asking you to make a purchase.
Take caution if anyone asks these types of questions. If you are in doubt, make a call and verify the request. It is always better to be safe than sorry.
