National Cybersecurity Awareness Month

Watch out for cybercriminals and the tricks they use

• Keep your computer, antivirus, and anti-malware software up to date – You’ll get security patches and updates each time you download the newest version of your computer and antivirus software, including the operating system and programs
  
• Examine email addresses & website URLs – Scammers often mimic legitimate websites and email addresses by using a slight variation in spelling
  
• Check, then follow unsolicited links – If you receive an unsolicited email, text message, or phone call asking you to update, check, or verify your account information, don’t use the link until you’ve verified it’s real
  
• Don’t open attachments – Be especially careful of attachments, especially those in emails you weren’t expecting
  
• Careful with requests for money – Scrutinize all electronic requests for a payment or transfer of funds
  
• Watch out for urgent requests – Be extra suspicious of any message that urges your “immediate action”
  
• Use multi-factor authentication – It adds another layer of protection for your security, especially when a hacker guesses your password
  
• Update passwords often – Make them unique and not something easily guessed
  
• Shred your paperwork – We often think cyber-crime is only online, but hackers are just as interested in the financial or personal information on bills, forms, and other paperwork