4 Steps to Protect Your Digital Information
Making a few small changes to how you operate online can help you stay safe from cyberattacks and ensure your personal information is protected. Below are 4 steps you can take to make sure your digital information is safe!
1. Create strong, unique passwords.
Even though simple passwords may be easy to remember, they are not the most secure and are easy for criminals to crack. It is recommended that you create long, unique passwords comprising upper and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols for each of your online accounts.
Also, never share your passwords with anyone or use the same password across multiple accounts. Be aware of what you share publicly as cybercriminals can use that information to guess your passwords or answers to security questions.
2. Enable multifactor authentication on every account that supports it.
Multifactor authentication provides an extra layer of security by requiring users to enter more than a password to access their information.
For example, you may be asked to enter a number sent to you via text or email or complete a facial recognition scan. As a result, even if your password is compromised, you can still be protected as the attacker cannot get in without that additional factor.
3. Treat suspicious messages cautiously.
If a message sounds urgent, requests money or asks to access your online accounts, beware. Attackers often create a sense of urgency and use people you know to trick you into providing access to your account or sending money.
In this type of situation, it is recommended that you confirm the request with the sender using a different device or account before clicking links, downloading attachments, calling a number in the email, sending money or providing sensitive information.
4. Monitor for suspicious activity.
Keep a close eye on your online accounts. Act immediately if you think you may have been compromised by changing your password and ensuring multifactor authentication is enabled. Contact your financial institutions if your banking or credit card information is linked to the compromised account(s).
