October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month, which means it's the perfect time to give yourself a digital “checkup" and make sure you're taking steps to protect your personal and financial information online.
So, how cyber-safe are you? Take a few minutes to follow this quick checklist and level up your cybersecurity today:
#1: Have You Enabled Multi-Factor Authentication?You may already know that strong passwords are your first defense against hackers and identity thieves looking to access your online accounts. But a password alone isn't always enough to keep cybercriminals at bay!Enabling multi-factor authentication (MFA) on your accounts whenever possible adds another layer of security that can stop hackers in their tracks. MFA requires you to take an extra step to securely confirm your identity when logging into online accounts, such as entering a special code sent via text message, email or phone call. So, even if someone gets their hands on your username and password, this extra step will help prevent them from logging in.It's quick and easy to set up MFA, and it can save you big headaches down the line. Check your settings on accounts and apps such as email, social media and financial services accounts to see if you can opt-in and enable MFA today!#2: Is Your Software Up to Date?Take a closer look at your digital devices and apps. Do you have the latest software updates installed? Not only do these routine updates keep your software running smoothly, but they often fix security issues that would otherwise leave you vulnerable to cyberattacks. Consider turning on automatic security updates, so you're always covered when new and improved software becomes available.#3: Do You Know How to Spot Text Scams?All too often, scammers pose as legitimate sources and send text messages to trick victims into handing over their Social Security number, account login, credit card details or other valuable information. You may receive an unexpected message from someone claiming to be a trusted brand or even your credit card company or credit union asking you to click on a link or log in to “secure your account." Don't fall for these common scams! The best advice is to keep your guard up, especially when you receive a text from an unknown number. While the message may sound urgent, it's a common ploy to get people to act fast without thinking things through. If something doesn't feel right, don't act — instead, contact the company directly using their official phone number. As a reminder, Wright-Patt Credit Union will not contact you out of the blue asking you to provide, update or verify your personal and financial information. This is something scammers do!
You may already know that strong passwords are your first defense against hackers and identity thieves looking to access your online accounts. But a password alone isn't always enough to keep cybercriminals at bay!
Enabling multi-factor authentication (MFA) on your accounts whenever possible adds another layer of security that can stop hackers in their tracks. MFA requires you to take an extra step to securely confirm your identity when logging into online accounts, such as entering a special code sent via text message, email or phone call. So, even if someone gets their hands on your username and password, this extra step will help prevent them from logging in.
It's quick and easy to set up MFA, and it can save you big headaches down the line. Check your settings on accounts and apps such as email, social media and financial services accounts to see if you can opt-in and enable MFA today!
Take a closer look at your digital devices and apps. Do you have the latest software updates installed? Not only do these routine updates keep your software running smoothly, but they often fix security issues that would otherwise leave you vulnerable to cyberattacks. Consider turning on automatic security updates, so you're always covered when new and improved software becomes available.
All too often, scammers pose as legitimate sources and send text messages to trick victims into handing over their Social Security number, account login, credit card details or other valuable information. You may receive an unexpected message from someone claiming to be a trusted brand or even your credit card company or credit union asking you to click on a link or log in to “secure your account." Don't fall for these common scams!
The best advice is to keep your guard up, especially when you receive a text from an unknown number. While the message may sound urgent, it's a common ploy to get people to act fast without thinking things through. If something doesn't feel right, don't act — instead, contact the company directly using their official phone number. As a reminder, Wright-Patt Credit Union will not contact you out of the blue asking you to provide, update or verify your personal and financial information. This is something scammers do!
Stay Cyber Smart All Year Round!
Wright-Patt Credit Union (WPCU) is here to help you stay cyber-smart so you can protect yourself from online fraud. For more helpful fraud prevention tips, tools and resources, visit WPCU.coop/StopFraud.