Cybersecurity Awareness

Simple Tips to Strengthen Your Cybersecurity 

1. Enable multi-factor authentication. Multi-factor authentication (MFA) is a cybersecurity measure for an account that requires anyone logging in to prove their identity multiple ways. Multi-factor authentication makes it extremely hard for hackers to access your online accounts, even if they know your password.
2. Recognize and report phishing. Phishing is when criminals use fake emails, social media posts or direct messages with the goal of luring you to click on a bad link or download a malicious attachment. If you click on a phishing link or file, you can hand over your personal information to cybercriminals. A phishing scheme can also install malware onto your device. Fortunately, it's easy to avoid a scam email once you know what to look for.
3. Update software. If you install the latest updates for devices, software, and apps, not only are you getting the best security available, you also ensure that you get access to the latest features and upgrades.
   
4. Use strong passwords & a password manager. Password managers are software that often take the form of apps, browser plugins or they might be included automatically in your browser or computer operating system. With a few clicks, you can generate new, secure passwords that are long, unique and complex. These password managers automatically store your passwords and can autofill them when you arrive at the site. Keep your password manager extra safe, securing it with multi-factor authentication (MFA).
5. Share with care. Limit the amount of personal information you share on social networking sites. Consider increasing your privacy settings. 

Keeping Your Devices Secure 

1. Keep your computers and mobile devices up to date. Having the latest security software, web browser, and operating system are the best defenses against viruses, malware, and other online threats. Turn on automatic updates so you receive the newest fixes as they become available.
2. Evaluate your browser's privacy settings and consider limiting or disabling cookies. While some cookies are useful, others can be used maliciously and collect information about you. 
3. Explore security options for all internet-connected devices, including gaming systems. 
4. Make sure mobile devices are not set to automatically connect to nearby Wi-Fi networks, as this can expose you to insecure networks. 
5. When not in use, disable mobile device features that connect you to other devices. 
6. Set mobile phones, tablets, and laptops to lock automatically after 5 minutes or less of non-use. 
7. Back up your data regularly. 
8. Before disposing of a computer, mobile device, or any internet-connected item, completely and permanently remove all personal information from it. 
9. Secure your internet connection. Always protect your home wireless network with a password. When connecting to public Wi-Fi networks, be cautious about what information you are sending over it.

More Ways to be Cyber Secure 

1. Never email financial information or your Social Security number. 
2. Download software or email attachments only from sources you know are trustworthy. 
3. Read all disclosure information before downloading software, including apps. 
4. Always type authenticated web addresses directly into your browser bar instead of clicking links. 
5. Don't stay signed into accounts. When you are finished, log off and close your browser. 
6. Close all pop-up windows by clicking the "X" in the title bar. Consider using a pop-up blocker. 
7. Don't put unknown flash drives into your computer. 

CISA's Cybersecurity Best Practices Resources: https://www.cisa.gov/topics/cybersecurity-best-practices

FBI's National Cybersecurity Awareness Month Resources: https://www.fbi.gov/investigate/cyber

American Bankers Association Cybersecurity Resources: https://www.aba.com/banking-topics/technology/cybersecurity/cybersecurity-resources