October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month, making it a great time to review how you protect your personal information and financial accounts. As more everyday tasks move online, taking a few extra precautions can help reduce your risk of falling victim to scams, identity theft, and other cyber threats.

You do not have to be a technology expert to practice good cybersecurity! Small habits, such as using strong passwords, recognizing suspicious messages, and monitoring your accounts, can make a meaningful difference.

Create Strong, Unique Passwords

One of the simplest ways to protect your online accounts is to use strong passwords. Avoid using easily guessed information, such as birthdays, pet names, addresses, or family members’ names.

Whenever possible:

  • Use a long password or passphrase.

  • Create a different password for each account.

  • Include a combination of letters, numbers, and symbols.

  • Consider using a trusted password manager to keep track of your passwords.

Using unique passwords is especially important for financial accounts. If the same password is used across multiple websites and one account is compromised, criminals may try using that password to access your other accounts.

Turn On Multi-Factor Authentication

Multi-factor authentication adds another layer of protection when logging in. In addition to entering a password, you may be asked to confirm your identity through a code, authentication app, or another approved method.

Even if someone obtains your password, multi-factor authentication can make it more difficult for them to access your account.

Enable this feature whenever it is available, especially for email, shopping, and other accounts that contain sensitive information.

Watch Out for Phishing Scams

Phishing scams are messages designed to trick you into sharing personal information, clicking a harmful link, or sending money. These messages may arrive through email, text messages, phone calls, or social media.

A scammer may pretend to be:

  • Your bank or another financial institution

  • A government agency

  • A delivery company

  • A familiar business

  • A friend, family member, or coworker

Be cautious if a message creates a sense of urgency, threatens to close your account, or asks you to verify information immediately. Scammers may also use logos, names, and language that make their messages appear legitimate.

Before clicking a link, contact the organization using a trusted phone number or by visiting its official website directly. Avoid using contact information provided in a suspicious message.

Keep Your Devices and Apps Updated

Software updates often include important security improvements. Make sure your phone, computer, tablet, web browser, and mobile apps are updated regularly.

You should also:

  • Use a screen lock on your devices.

  • Install reputable security software when appropriate.

  • Avoid downloading apps from unfamiliar sources.

  • Be cautious when using public Wi-Fi.

  • Lock your device when you are not using it.

These steps can help protect the information stored on your devices and reduce opportunities for cybercriminals to gain access.

Monitor Your Accounts Regularly

Reviewing your bank and credit card accounts regularly can help you identify unusual activity sooner. Look for transactions you do not recognize, unexpected withdrawals, or changes to your account information.

Digital banking tools can make it easier to stay informed and keep track of your finances. Peoples Bank offers digital banking services designed to provide convenience, access, and control while managing your accounts. Customers should also take advantage of available account alerts* and notifications when possible. 

If you notice suspicious activity, contact your financial institution as soon as possible. Acting quickly may help limit additional damage.

Be Careful With Personal Information

Avoid sharing sensitive information unless you are confident that the request is legitimate. This includes your Social Security number, account numbers, passwords, security codes, and other identifying details.

Remember that legitimate organizations generally will not ask you to provide your full password or share a one-time security code over an unexpected phone call, text, or email.

When in doubt, pause and verify the request before responding.

Make Cybersecurity a Regular Habit

Cybersecurity is not something you only need to think about once a year. October is a helpful reminder to review your passwords, update your devices, check your accounts, and talk with family members about common scams.

At Peoples Bank, we believe banking should feel personal, simple, and secure. Our team is here to help customers make informed financial decisions and learn more about protecting their money. Visit the Peoples Bank website to explore financial resources, fraud and scam information, and digital banking options.

A few extra minutes spent protecting your information today can help give you greater confidence in your financial security tomorrow.

 

*Message and data rates may apply