Navigating Cybersecurity Threats

Cybersecurity threats are everywhere and can target anyone through various channels. It can feel overwhelming at times, but there are simple ways to stay protected. Staying alert and informed is the best defense. Below are key tips to help safeguard your information:

Strong Passwords = Strong Protection 

• Use unique, complex passwords for each account (include uppercase letters, numbers, and symbols).
• Never re-use passwords across bank accounts, email, or investment platforms.
• Change passwords regularly, especially after any security incident.
• Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) whenever available—it adds an important layer of security by requiring a second step (such as a code sent to your phone) in addition to your password.
• Consider using a password manager for secure storage.

Email: Think Before You Click 

• Do not click on links or attachments from unknown or unexpected sources.
• Be cautious even when clicking links or opening attachments from known sources and double-check that the email address is legitimate.
  • Tip: On your computer, you can check a link with your cursor by hovering over the hyperlink in the email to preview the URL.
• Never share personal information (e.g., Social Security number, account details) via email.
• If your financial institution needs documents or secure information, ask for a secure upload link.
• Look for warning signs: poor grammar, urgent demands, or unfamiliar email addresses.
• Delete emails that are determined to be phishing or a scam.

Phone Calls & Texts: Stay Alert 

Cybercriminals may pose as banks, government officials, or even someone you know. If you receive a suspicious call:

• Don’t answer an unknown number—let it go to voicemail.
• If you answer and the call claims to be from your bank or advisor, hang up and call the official number you know and trust.
  • Tip: Scammers will try to keep you on the phone. It’s better to be “impolite” and end the call quickly than to leave yourself vulnerable to a threat.

If the caller sounds like a family member or close friend but the conversation seems off, they may be using AI-generated voice technology and/or a software that “spoofs” a known number, making it appear that you’re receiving the call from someone you actually know. Look for red flags:

• They are calling from an unfamiliar number.
• They have urgent requests for money or personal information.
• They are trying to generate panic and keep you from thinking clearly. Scammers have even been known to fabricate “virtual kidnapping” scenarios where they trick the recipient into believing a loved one has been kidnapped and is being hurt in the background of the call.

What should you do if you receive a suspicious call?

• Hang up.
• Call the person’s usual, known number to confirm their status.
• Call the police and report the incident with your phone carrier.
  • Tip: Establish a family code word or shared question/answer to verify identity during emergencies.

What should you do if you receive a suspicious text?

• Do not click on links or respond.
• Delete the message and block the number.
• These texts often claim you have unpaid bills or an urgent issue with your bank account. To verify, go directly to the official website or call the company using a trusted phone number, not the one in the message.

Inactive Accounts: Monitor Closely 

• Cybercriminals may target dormant accounts, as it likely still has personal information tied to the account.
• Keep a record of active accounts and review them regularly.

Stay Proactive, Stay Protected 

Cyber threats continue to evolve but staying informed and cautious can greatly reduce your risk. While no guide can cover every scenario, consistently following these best practices helps protect your identity, accounts, and peace of mind. 

When in doubt, don’t engage—pause, verify, and contact us if you need support.