Cybersecurity - Tips to Protecting Yourself

With so much happening in the world—whether it’s market swings or unsettling political headlines—it’s understandable to feel uneasy. Unfortunately, in such periods, there is usually an increase in financial scams and cybersecurity threats. This is because scammers see an opportunity to take advantage of our anxiety. They try to use our instincts to protect ourselves against us.

If it all feels overwhelming, we want you to know that you’re not alone. But while “Cybersecurity” may seem complex and confusing, it is simply about protecting yourself and others online. It is a matter of ensuring your information remains protected and confidential – accessible only to you and those you authorize.

From using complex passwords, to being wary of suspicious emails, here are four easy tips on how you can protect yourself online.

1.  Use Strong, Unique Passwords

Passwords are your first line of defense. A good password can keep the wrong people out.  

 Tips for strong passwords:  

• Don’t use common words of personal information, like your pet’s name or the year you were born
• Use a mix of letters (both upper and lower case), numbers, and symbols
• Make it long - 14 characters or more is best
• Don’t share, reuse, or repeat passwords
• Avoid writing passwords down
• Use a password manager to help you create and track passwords

 2.  Turn on Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

MFA is like adding a deadbolt to your digital front door. Even if someone guesses your password, they still won’t get in without a second code, usually sent to your phone or email.

In addition to this extra layer of protection, you will also get notifications if someone tries to log into your accounts. If you get a notification that someone is trying to log into your accounts and you didn't authorize this activity, report it right away.

3. Watch Out for Scams (Phishing)

Phishing scams try to trick you into sharing your personal information, often in emails to text messages pretending to be a company you trust.

Tip:  Do not click suspicious links. If in doubt, visit the website directly or call the company using a phone number that you know is real.  For example, if you receive a text message that is supposedly from your credit card company telling you to call them at a specific number to protect your account, use the phone number on the back of your credit card instead.

Here are some things to look out for::

• Unfamiliar or unexpected emails or messages
• Spelling errors or odd grammar
• Poorly formatted messages or fuzzy graphics
• Emails or texts asking for personal information or password. Christopher Street will NEVER ask for your passwords.
• Odd links or addresses, or links that don’t match the sender. Sometime you can spot this by hovering your mouse over the link without clicking on it, so that your browser displays the actual destination.
• Messages that seem too good to be true, express great urgency, or are aggressive and scary.
• Anything else that makes you feel uneasy

 3. Keep your Devices Updated

Those software update notifications aren’t just for new features. They often contain critical security updates that protect your devices or the latest vulnerabilities.

Make it easier by:

• Turning on automatic updates
• Only download software updates from trusted vendor sources. Don't trust a link in an email message, especially if you don't know the sender. And don’t download software from a pop-up message you did not expect
• Avoid updates while using unsecured networks such as WiFi at the library or a coffee shop

If You Think You've Been Hacked

First of all, do not panic – but act quickly. And do not be embarrassed! That’s what many hackers are hoping you will do. Even the most tech-savvy among us can fall for these increasing sophisticated scams. There is no shame in asking for help.

1. Call us. We are here to help and can walk you through next steps.
2. Change your passwords immediately for anything that might be affected.
3. Sign up for Credit Monitoring and check your reports for any unusual activity.
4. Freeze your credit, also known as a credit lock, with the major credit bureaus.

You're Not Alone

It can be scary when it comes to scams and security—but you’re not in this by yourself. We’re here to support you, answer questions, and help keep your finances and personal information protected. And we’ll continue to share updates on new scams and ways to stay ahead of them.

You’ve got this—and we’ve got your back.