Protect Your Privacy
It is no secret that online fraud and phishing are becoming more common. Here is what you can do to help protect your online privacy.
Protect Your Passwords
Password attacks are one of the most common risk to the security of personal data. It’s best practice to:
- Make it lengthy by using 12 or more characters
- Don’t use personal information such as birthdays, or spouse or child’s name
- Make it complex such as a phrase from a movie or song
- Make a unique password for each of your accounts
- Consider changing your password every so often
- Instead of a written note, store it somewhere secure, such as a password manager application
Learn more about password dos and don'ts
Opt In for Account Alerts
Opting in to text message alerts on your accounts is important. These alerts can notify you of types of changes or suspicious activity so that you can prevent any potential issues from occurring.
If you get a text message asking for your personal or financial information, don't click on any links. Legitimate companies won't ask for that information by text. If you think the message is real, contact the company to confirm. Do not use the contact information in the text message.
Use Multi-Factor Authentication
What is it?
Multi-factor authentication is an electronic method that asks you to confirm your identity when you log in to your account. For example, the most common form of multi-factor authentication requires you to enter a code before logging in. You’ll usually have the option to receive the code by text or email.
Another option to consider is using an authenticator app on your mobile device. An authenticator app is an application you download and install on your phone or other device. It's used to generate two-factor authentication codes for your online accounts. You can use it to access many accounts that supports two-step verification, like Gmail, Facebook, Twitter and more.
The most common types of multi-factor authentication include:
- Something you know: A password, PIN or security question
- Something you are: A fingerprint, retina or face scan
- Something you have: A one-time verification passcode, usually sent by a text, email or voice call
Why is it important?
Multi-factor authentication is important to help protect your account from hackers. It can help ensure that even if they obtain one piece of information, they won't be able to access your account without the other.
Don’t Click on Suspicious Links
Be cautious of email, text messages, and social media links. Clicking on a link that you’re unsure about may allow scammers to access to your accounts, personal information, finances, or install viruses and malware to your device.
When evaluating hyperlinks, look for:
- Misspelled words
- Hyphens and symbols
- Urgent language
- Requests for sensitive information
Instead of clicking unknown links, consider typing in the URL of the main website into a browser, then navigate to or search for the content.
Recognize and Report Phishing Emails
Phishing is a way to steal sensitive information by sending emails from what looks like a trustworthy organization.
What to look for:
- Unfamiliar email addresses
- Unusual spelling and grammar errors
- Broken images or attachments
If you believe you have received a phishing email, mark it as spam or report it to your email provider.
Report Suspicious Activity
Trust your instinct! If you’re concerned about a possible scam, it’s best to contact the company related to your account and let them know.
You can also report scams at www.identitytheft.gov/
This blog is up to date as of September 2023 and has not been updated for changes in the law, administration or current events.