Ransomware is a major risk to company operations and is increasingly becoming more common and expensive. Financial institutions, healthcare organizations, schools, and other companies must continuously address how cyberattacks will affect business. It’s hard to believe that with all the steps we’re already taking to protect our information, thieves still find ways around. Here are some simple cybersecurity tips that can help protect your accounts and valuable information.
- Have clever answers to your security questions.
Security questions usually aren’t programmed to determine whether the information you’re entering is true or false, only that it matches your initial response when setting up your account. Random responses protect you from others who might easily guess your answer. Switching up answers to your security questions periodically can add extra protection.
- Don’t overshare on social media
Thieves can use what you disclose on social media to hack into your bank account or open new accounts in your name. Don’t just accept a social media site’s default security setting—check to see who you’re agreeing to share your personal life with and change any settings you’re uncomfortable with.
- Use 20+ characters for passwords.
Complexity is a good practice when creating passwords, but lengthening your password to 20+ characters can be effective added protection. The longer the password is, the more difficult it will be to simply guess, and the more difficult it will be for cyber criminals to crack.
- Delete Before Disposing.
Completely wipe your device before you get rid of it. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for permanently deleting information or contact technical support to be sure your device has been cleaned before disposal. If your device was damaged, contact the manufacturer for further instructions to make sure your information isn’t going to be retrievable.
For additional assistance or if you think you may have been a victim of a possible cyber attack, please visit IdentityTheft.gov
*Signal Financial Federal Credit Union is not affiliated with any of the companies mentioned or linked in this article.
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