STAY SAFE ONLINE
October is National Cybersecurity Awareness Month (NCSAM)! NCSAM is a collaborative effort between government agencies and the public to make sure that we all have the resources that we need to stay safe and secure online. It’s the perfect time to emphasize the importance of taking proactive steps that will enhance your cybersecurity at home and in the workplace.
STRENGTHEN YOUR LOGIN PROTECTION
Enable multifactor authentication to ensure that the only person who has access to your account is you. Use it for email, banking, social media and any other service that requires you logging in.
SHAKE UP YOUR PASSWORD PROTOCOL
Consider using the longest password you can. Get creative and customize your standard password for different sites — this can prevent cybercriminals from gaining access to these accounts and protect you in the event of a breach. You can also use password managers to generate and help you remember different, complex passwords for each of your accounts.
PROTECT ALL YOUR CONNECTED DEVICES
Whether it’s your computer, tablet, smartphone, gaming console or other network devices, the best defense against viruses and malware is to update to the latest security software, web browser and operating systems. You can also protect most devices with antivirus software.
PLAY HARD TO GET WITH STRANGERS
Cybercriminals use phishing tactics in their efforts to scam their victims. If you’re unsure who an incoming email is from — even if the details look accurate — or if the email looks “phishy,” do not reply, do not download any attachments and do not click on any links found in that email.
Interacting online with people from around the world has led to amazing new developments. Unfortunately, there can be a dark side to making friends on the internet. Learn how to spot and avoid romance scams so you can enjoy the benefits of the web while protecting your heart and money.
DON’T POST AND TELL
Be conscious of the information you post online, from personal addresses to where you like to grab that morning cup of coffee. Keep social security numbers, account numbers and passwords private, as well as specific information about yourself, such as your full name, address, birthday and even vacation plans.
KEEP AN EYE ON YOUR APPS
Most connected devices use supported applications. Check your app permissions using the “rule of least privilege” and delete what you don’t need or no longer use. Say “no” to privilege app requests that don’t make sense to make sure that you’re not installing suspicious applications that could be gathering your personal information.
STAY PROTECTED WHILE CONNECTED
Before you connect to any public wireless hotspot — like at an airport, hotel or café — be sure to confirm the name of the network and exact login procedures with the staff. If you do use an unsecured public access point, avoid sensitive activities that involve passwords or credit cards like accessing your online banking account.
If you think that your personal information has been compromised, contact GECU immediately. We will help you take steps to protect your account and your information. GECU makes every effort to keep our members’ personal and financial information safe from online threats. You can find more details, as well as tips to help protect your accounts and personal information in our Fraud Resource Center.
