CYBERSECURITY - WAYS TO PROTECT YOURSELF

Friday, Aug 12, 2022

At YNCU, we know how important it is for you to feel safe with your finances. The threat of cyber-attacks has been on the rise and your finances can be vulnerable online. We want to help keep you safe online. Here are five things you can do to help protect yourself from cyber-attacks:

Change your password often

Ensuring that you are changing your password often can prevent people from hacking into your account. But make sure you are using a unique password every time. Reusing the same three passwords can make it easy for cyber criminals to crack the code. Ensuring you are using a strong password every time is also important. Make sure you are not using a password that is easy to guess, like your birthday. Using personal information as your password allows hackers or A.I. systems to get into your account.

Multi-factor identification

Always use multi-factor identification if possible. This is an extra step that can largely reduce the risk of cyber-attacks. If a hacker gains the password to your email, he or she would still need access to your phone to gain the verification code. This makes it harder for hackers because they need multiple pieces of information before they can reach any of your valuable data.

Update devices

Make sure you are updating your devices regularly. If you have a software update, install it right away. Hackers are always looking for points of weakness within your devices. Outdated software can make it easier for a cyber-attack to occur. Cyber criminals will jump on an opportunity to attack if your devices are vulnerable, so keep up on updates.

Monitor your charges

When you are managing your finances, pay close attention to what you are being charged for. Hackers will often steal your information to get access to your financial assets or make a purchase with your card. Make sure you know what you spent and ensure your charges match.

Check your social media settings

Your social media accounts hold a lot of your personal information. In the wrong hands, cyber criminals can use this information to steal from you. Avoid sharing overly personal information, as it is easy to accidentally share common security questions like your pet’s name or town you grew up in. Add an extra layer of protection by ensuring your account settings are private and can only be seen by people you trust.

Be cautious of text scams

There is currently a rise of text scams, hackers are obtaining your phone number and using this to gain more information. A lot of these scams will claim to be providing you with a refund or a type of cash prize. Be cautious of unexpected texts, especially ones that ask you to click a link or provide personal information. It is always a good idea to ask questions before giving out your personal information.

Watch for phishing

Phishing emails are emails from cyber criminals that are designed to look like they are from someone you know. Hackers will pretend to be a legitimate person or company to get you to click on a link or to provide them with personal information like your cell phone number or banking information. Be cautious of these emails and trust your instincts. If an email does not seem right, call the person or company directly and inquire about the email. Never click on a link in an email from an unknown sender. Once you are positive the email is phishing, report it!

Be aware of common scams used by cyber criminals, new scams are constantly emerging. Check out our list of common financial scams and videos on why you need to be alert while interacting virtually. Remember, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Read our past blog on fraud prevention to learn why you should always ask why when revealing personal information.

Learn more on how to protect yourself from financial fraud here. At YNCU, we are always looking to give you advice that will make you feel more confident with where your money is going. We are here to help address all your financial concerns. If you suspect you are a victim of fraud, contact YNCU immediately at 1-888-413-YNCU (9628) and report it to your local police. Know that you are not alone. We are here to help!

Come meet with one of YNCU’s experienced financial advisors to learn more about becoming a member and how to take control of your finances. Become a member online!

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