Tips for Being Cyber Smart

Protecting yourself from identity theft and cyber threats is extremely important. In honor of Cybersecurity Awareness Month, we wanted to share tips on the best ways to secure and protect your data, your devices and the online world we all share.

How To Keep Your Personal Info Safe Online

Keep Passwords Private and Unique

• Use different passwords on different systems and accounts. This can help prevent cyber criminals from gaining access to your accounts and protect you in the event of a breach.
• Make your passwords as long as possible. It’s recommended to use 16-64 characters.
• Use a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols.
• Reset your password every few months.
• Use a password manager. This is a secure way to store all of your unique passwords.

Use Multi-Factor Authentication

Using multi-factor authentication ensures that the only person who has access to your account is you. It requires the use of two or more credentials, such as a password and a temporary security code sent to your phone. You should use this for email, banking, social media, and any other service that requires logging in. If multi-factor authentication is an option, enable it using a trusted mobile device, such as your smartphone or an authenticator app.

Stay Protected While Connected

When using public Wi-Fi networks, avoid any activities that could reveal sensitive, personal, or financial information such as online banking or online shopping. If possible, use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to ensure the safest online experience. If you’re unsure whether your connection is secure or not, look for a padlock icon in your browser bar – this means your connection is secure.

Beware of Phishing Scams

If you receive an email from an unknown sender with suspicious links or attachments, do not respond and do not click on anything in the email. Cyber criminals will pose as financial institutions or personal contacts and attempt to collect your personal information. Don’t fall for it! LCU will never ask you for personal information (Social Security Number, date of birth, account number, login credentials, etc.) via email or an unsolicited phone call. If you think you may be a victim of identify theft, visit IdentityTheft.gov.

Inspect Your Apps

Be sure to only keep apps that you actively use on your device, as some apps could run programs in the background or use default permissions you had no idea you approved. Keeping your apps up-to-date and only downloading from trusted vendors and sources will help keep you protected against cyber threats.

We’re Here to Help!

At LCU, the safety and security of our members and community is a main priority. Let us know if you have ever received a phishing email or call from someone pretending to be LCU. And call us anytime you think there is something fraudulent with your card. Use online banking or our mobile app to frequently review your accounts.