Cyber attacks have become a major concern in the digital age, and protecting ourselves online is becoming increasingly important.
From phishing scams to security breaches, cyber attacks can cause significant damage to both our personal and professional lives.
But by taking some simple and effective cybersecurity measures, you can significantly reduce your vulnerability to cyber threats.
Thankfully, implementing cybersecurity measures doesn’t have to be a daunting task. This blog post will provide six straightforward cybersecurity tips for your online protection.
1. Enable multi-factor authentication
Multi-factor authentication (MFA) is a popular security measure that adds an extra layer of protection to your online accounts.
MFA requires you to provide two or more forms of ID to access your account – for example, a password and a fingerprint scan.
Enabling MFA is easy, and many websites and apps offer it as an option. All you need to do is go into your account settings and turn it on.
From there, you’ll usually be prompted to provide a backup form of ID, such as a phone number or email address.
2. Use strong passwords
Your password is the first line of defense against hackers, and a weak password can easily be guessed or cracked.
Choosing a strong and unique password for each account is a must. Here are some tips for creating a strong password:
- Use a combination of numbers, letters, and symbols
- Make it at least 12 characters long
- Avoid using common words or phrases, such as “password” or “123456”
- Don’t use personal information, such as your name or birthdate
- Use a password manager to create and store complex passwords
3. Update software
Keeping your software up to date is very important for staying safe online.
Cybercriminals are constantly looking for vulnerabilities in software and operating systems to exploit. They can use these vulnerabilities to gain unauthorized access to your computer or network, launch malicious software, or even take control of your device.
If you don’t have your security software, web browsers, and devices set to “update automatically,” then we recommend you turn on your automatic updates now.
4. Be cautious online
Being cautious online is important for prioritizing cybersecurity. Here are some things to keep in mind when browsing the internet:
- Use secure websites that have “https” in the URL and a padlock icon
- Avoid clicking on links or downloading attachments from unknown sources
- Be careful what you share on social media
- Install antivirus software on your computer (eg. AVG Internet Security, Norton 360, Microsoft Defender)
- Choose trusted web browsers
- Use a virtual private network when accessing public wi-fi
Following these tips can significantly reduce your risk of falling victim to cyber threats and protect your personal information online.
5. Educate yourself on cybersecurity
Educating yourself about cyber threats and internet security measures is another important part of online security.
The world of cybersecurity is always evolving, and it’s vital to stay up to date with the latest trends and best practices.
By educating yourself about cyber threats, you can become a more informed and alert internet user. This can help you to better protect yourself against cyber threats and prioritize cybersecurity in your daily life.
6. Recognize and report phishing
Phishing is a common cyber attack where scammers trick you into providing sensitive information, such as your login details, financial information, or personal data.
Phishing attacks can come in many forms, such as fake emails, text messages, or phone calls. They often use urgency or fear to manipulate you into taking action without thinking it through.
If you fall for a phishing attack, your personal information can be stolen and used for identity theft, financial fraud, or other malicious purposes.
That’s why it’s essential to recognize and report phishing attacks as soon as you suspect you’ve been targeted.
It’s clear that cyber threats are a growing concern in today’s digital age, and protecting ourselves online should be a top priority.
From password protection to staying on top of software updates, you can stay secure online by following the simple cybersecurity measures outlined in this blog.
Have you been a victim of a cyber attack?
If you’re concerned you have been a victim of a phishing scam, you can report phishing to online services such as the Federal Trade Commission.
Or, if you think your Union State Bank account has been compromised, please contact the Bank by calling 1-855-468-6872 or your local branch. A complete list of Union State branches can be found here.