Cybercriminals continue to use emails, text messages, phone calls and even social media to try to trick people into sharing information or sending money. Taking a moment to stop and think before you click, respond or provide information is one of your best defenses.
Simple Ways to Protect Yourself
Use strong, unique passwords.
Avoid using the same password for multiple accounts. Longer, unique passwords or passphrases are harder to guess, and a password manager can help you keep track of them.
Turn on multi-factor authentication.
Whenever possible, enable multi-factor authentication (MFA). It adds another layer of protection by requiring more than just your password to access an account.
Think before you click.
Be cautious with unexpected emails and text messages, especially those asking you to click a link, open an attachment, provide personal information or act immediately. When in doubt, contact the company directly using a phone number or website you know is legitimate.
Keep your devices updated.
Software and security updates often fix vulnerabilities that criminals can exploit. Keep your phone, computer, apps and browsers up to date.
Watch for scams that create urgency.
Fraudsters often want you to act before you have time to think. Be suspicious of messages claiming there is an urgent problem with your account, that you owe money, or that you need to send funds or provide a verification code immediately.
Monitor your financial accounts.
Review your accounts regularly and report transactions you don't recognize. Account alerts can also help you quickly spot unusual activity.
Remember: Stop. Think. Verify
If something doesn't seem right, don't feel pressured to act. Stop, verify the request independently and contact the organization directly.
At NESC Credit Union, protecting our members' information is a priority. If you receive a suspicious communication claiming to be from NESC or have questions about activity on your account, contact us directly.
A little caution can go a long way toward keeping your information—and your money—safer.
