Cyber Security Tips

The internet has become the place we store all of our information. From banking to bill pay, passwords to correspondence, everything happens online. It’s essential to keep our data safe! Here are our top cyber security tips, so you can rest assured you’re doing your best to combat cybercriminals.

Cyber Security Tips

Keep Your Software Up to Date: When you open your computer and it suggests an update, you need to take the time to do it. Not only will the update give you a better user interface than before, but it will also tweak the software to protect against the most recent threats. Check every device you own for updates, including your tablet, phone, television, and computer.

Do Not Use Public Wi-Fi: Public Wi-Fi is not secure, and cybercriminals are well aware. Anyone can use public Wi-Fi, and connecting to it gives access directly to your device. By using cellular data or a VPN, you can keep your information protected.

Keep Your Devices Either Locked Away or In Sight: Never leave devices sitting around in hotel rooms or people’s homes. If you are on vacation, that hotel room door means very little. Keep your devices on you or in a password-protected safe that is programmed with a random numerical password. Be sure to disconnect every device from the internet before storing them.

Password Protection: Most websites or devices have multi-factor identification to keep your data safe. Use this whenever possible by creating unique passwords. If you feel your password has been compromised, don’t delay changing it.

Be Sure to Regularly Monitor Your Online Accounts: Unauthorized activity on your bank account is obvious if you look for it. Keep track of your purchases. If you don’t recognize one, immediately contact your bank. Be sure to take advantage of the email and text alerts if your financial institution offers them.

Scams

Every year, new scams hit the internet. Here are the three scams prevalent this year that you should be aware of since clicking them may result in the installation of malicious software on your device. Similarly, some entice you to give out information that can be used to get into your accounts, such as maiden names, birthdates, and answers to security questions.

The Holiday E-Card: A sweet holiday card can look innocent but lead to what is called a phishing scam. Many people fall for this one during the holidays. If you do not recognize the sender, do not open the email.

Shipping Alerts: Please check the supposed sender of any shipping alerts. Directly contact the company if there is an issue. Shipping has become a significant problem due to the pandemic, and scammers are taking advantage and sending deceitful notifications.

Malicious Ads: If it seems too good to be true, it probably is! These scams promise amazing rewards, and all you need to do is fill out this form with your personal information and pay the shipping to get the newest iPhone.