Small Habits, Stronger Security: 8 Ways to Protect Yourself Online
October is National Cybersecurity Month, making it a great time to take a closer look at how you protect your personal and financial information online.
From checking your bank account and shopping online to managing email and social media, much of our daily lives happen online. While cyber threats continue to evolve, protecting yourself often comes down to everyday habits practiced consistently. Taking a few proactive steps today can help reduce your risk and give you greater confidence online.
- Use Strong, Unique Passwords
Using the same password can make it easier for a cybercriminal to access multiple accounts if one account is compromised. Create strong, unique passwords for your most important accounts, especially email, bank, and financial accounts. Consider using a password manager to securely store your passwords and help you create stronger ones.
- Turn on Multi-Factor Authentication
Multi-factor authentication, or MFA, adds another layer of protection when you log in. In addition to your password, you may be asked to verify your identity using a code, an authentication app, or another method. Whenever MFA is available, especially for bank accounts and email, turn it on. The extra step can help protect your accounts even if your password is compromised.
- Think Before You Click
Phishing scams often rely on urgency to get you to act before you have time to think. A message might claim that your account has been locked, a payment needs to be verified, or you need to take immediate action. Before clicking a link or opening an attachment, pause and consider:
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- Do I recognize the sender?
- Was I expecting this message?
- Is the request asking for sensitive information?
- Does the link or email address look legitimate?
- Is the message creating a sense of urgency or pressure?
When in doubt, don’t click. Instead, contact the organization directly using a phone number or website you know is legitimate.
- Keep Your Devices and Apps Updated
Software updates aren’t just about getting new features. They can also include important security fixes that help protect your devices from known vulnerabilities. Turn on automatic updates when available, and regularly update your phone, computer, apps, and web browsers.
- Be Careful with Public Wi-Fi
Public Wi-Fi can be convenient when you’re traveling, working from a coffee shop, or spending time in a public place. However, it’s important to be thoughtful about what you do while connected. Avoid accessing sensitive accounts on unfamiliar networks when possible. If you need to access financial information or complete an important transaction, consider using your cellular connection or a trusted network instead.
- Protect Your Personal Information
Be mindful about what information you share online. Cybercriminals can use details such as your full name, address, birthday, phone number, or answers to common security questions to attempt to gain access to accounts. Review your privacy settings on social media and think carefully before sharing personal information publicly.
- Know the Signs of a Scam
Scams can take many forms, from suspicious emails and text messages to phone calls, social media messages, and impersonation attempts claiming to be from a trusted organization. While the tactics change, many scams have something in common: they create urgency, ask for sensitive information, or pressure you to send money.
Remember that legitimate organizations generally won’t ask you to provide sensitive information through an unexpected email or text message. If something doesn’t feel right, stop and verify the request through an official channel before taking action.
- Make Cybersecurity an Everyday Habit
National Cybersecurity Month is a good time to review your digital security, but protecting your information shouldn’t be limited to October. Take a few minutes to review your passwords, security settings, account alerts, and devices on a regular basis. Small steps can make a difference when it comes to protecting your personal and financial information.
At Dart Bank, we’re committed to helping safeguard your accounts and help you bank with confidence. Visit our Fraud News section for additional information on scams, fraud prevention, and cybersecurity best practices.
If you ever receive a suspicious message claiming to be from us, don’t click links, respond to the request, or provide personal information. Contact us directly at (517) 676-3661 so we can help you determine whether the communication is legitimate.
Stay alert, stay informed, and make cybersecurity a part of your everyday routine.