Essential Tips to Safeguard your Financial and Personal Information
In today's digital age, where convenience and connectivity define our everyday interactions, safeguarding your personal information and financial assets against cyber threats is more critical than ever. With the growing sophistication of cyber-attacks from hackers all over the world, we wanted to share some tips that you can use to spot these attacks and stop them before they start.
Strong, Unique Passwords
We are required to make passwords for almost everything we do online. Shopping, booking tee times, signing up for events etc. It is extremely important to use random phrases or complex passwords combining letter’s, numbers, and special characters to ensure that passwords are not easily guessed. It is particularly important to avoid using guessable information like birthdays, names, and street names. While it can be a pain to keep track of different passwords, it is vital to ensure your protection from cyber security threats.
Enable Multi-Factor Authentication
You will increasingly hear the term Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) when it comes to cybersecurity. I’m sure you’ve noticed that many websites and mobile apps ask you to type in a passcode that was sent to you via text in order access your accounts. This is a form of Multi-Factor Authentication, which adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second form of verification on top of your password. In this case, even if your password was compromised, a hacker would not be able to access the code sent to you via text. You should take the time to enable MFA on your accounts if you have the option to do so.
Beware of Phishing Attacks
Phishing is a type of cyber-attack where attackers send fraudulent communications (usually emails) that appear to be from reputable sources, such as banks, social media platforms, or government agencies. The goal is to trick individuals into revealing sensitive information like passwords, credit card numbers, or other personal data, or to download malicious software onto their devices. Phishing emails typically come from an email the appears to be from a person you know, but if you look closely at the sender’s email you will notice slight misspellings in the email address or strange grammar mistakes. Phishing could also come with strange graphics or logos that appear to be slightly off from the sender they are attempting to replicate. If you get a suspicious email from a business, colleague, or friend make sure to call and verbally confirm with this person before taking any action on the email.
Regularly Update Software and Devices
We are all guilty of ignoring the “software updates available” notifications we receive on our phones and computers, but it is vital to update your software regularly. Keep your operating systems, antivirus software, and applications up to date with the latest security patches. These updates often contain fixes for vulnerabilities that hackers try to exploit.
Use Secure Communication Channels
When communicating sensitive information with your advisors, bankers, accountants, and attorneys make sure to use secure channels such as encrypted email or secure portals. Avoid sending statements, tax forms, and important documents over email or text to protect personal information and account numbers from a potential security breach. Your CPA, attorney, or advisor likely has a secure portal where you can share documents back and forth. You should opt for this encrypted option whenever it is available to you.
Monitor Your Accounts
Regularly review your bank statements, investment account transactions, and credit reports for any unauthorized activity. If you spot suspicious transactions make sure to report them to your financial institution immediately.
Conclusion
By implementing these practical cybersecurity tips, you can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to hacking and protect your personal information and financial assets effectively. Remember, cybersecurity is a shared responsibility between you and your service providers. Stay proactive, stay informed, and safeguard your financial future in today's interconnected world. Your diligence today can ensure a secure tomorrow.