SafeAmerica Credit Union

Cybersecurity Awareness Month

• By Lisa

National Cybersecurity Awareness Month – October 2023

October is National Cybersecurity Awareness Month!

As a SafeAmerica Credit Union member, we want you to be armed with the tools you need to keep yourself safe on the internet. Protecting your financial information is important, you already know that. But it's a good time to remind ourselves about cybersecurity and protecting our identity too.  There are tools and tips we can all use and put to good use when we're on the web.

A Little About Cybersecurity Awareness Month

Held every October, Cybersecurity Awareness Month, is a collaborative effort that reaches from the White House to individuals to raise awareness about cybersecurity and to ensure that everyone has the resources they need to be safe and secure online. As we prepare for the upcoming holidays, October is the ideal time to learn about your cyber presence and the role cybersecurity plays in keeping you and your friends and family safe and secure.

work tools

The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) and the National Cybersecurity Alliance (NCA) lead a collaborative effort to raise cybersecurity awareness nationally and internationally.

4 Steps To Keep You Cyber Safe

Use Strong Passwords

Strong passwords are long, random, unique and include all four character types (uppercase, lowercase, numbers and symbols). Password managers are a powerful tool to help you create strong passwords for each of your accounts.

Learn More »

Turn On MFA

You need more than a password to protect your online accounts and enabling MFA makes you significantly less likely to get hacked. Enable MFA on all your online accounts that offer it, especially email, social media and financial accounts.

Learn More »

Recognize & Report Phishing

Be cautious of unsolicited messages asking for personal information. Avoid sharing sensitive information or credentials with unknown sources. Report phishing attempts and delete the message.

Learn More »

Update Software

Ensuring your software is up to date is the best way to make sure you have the latest security patches and updates on your devices. Regularly check for updates if automatic updates are not available.

Learn More »

Additional Links and Informative Videos

Follow These Top Tips To Stay Safe Online!

Password Tips

Multi Factor Authentication (MFA) Tips

Phishing Tips

Software Updates

Simple Steps To Protect Your Family

• By Lisa

National Cybersecurity Awareness Month 2022

October is National Cybersecurity Awareness Month!

As a SafeAmerica Credit Union member, we want you to be armed with the tools you need to keep yourself safe on the internet. Protecting your financial information is important, you already know that. But it's a good time to remind ourselves about cybersecurity and protecting our identity too.  There are tools and tips we can all use and put to good use when we're on the web.

A Little About Cybersecurity Awareness Month

Held every October, Cybersecurity Awareness Month, is a collaborative effort that reaches from the White House to individuals to raise awareness about cybersecurity and to ensure that everyone has the resources they need to be safe and secure online. As we prepare for the upcoming holidays, October is the ideal time to learn about your cyber presence and the role cybersecurity plays in keeping you and your friends and family safe and secure.

work tools

The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) and the National Cybersecurity Alliance (NCA) lead a collaborative effort to raise cybersecurity awareness nationally and internationally.

Cybercrime

Cybercrime is defined as any crime committed electronically, such as theft, fraud and even physical threats and endangerment. It is important to know your cyber basics and know how to take action to protect yourself. Being safe on the computer is similar to being safe in your daily routine. You would not leave your car unlocked in the middle of a crowded city, so why not apply those same safety principles to your online life?

Physical Cyber Attacks - What Are They?

Cyber attacks do not always have to come from the internet, and malware can hide easily on some of the data storage devices we trust and use daily. Physical cyber attacks use hardware, external storage devices or other physical types of attacks to infect, damage or otherwise compromise digital systems. The attack can hitch a ride on USB storage devices or flash drives, CDs, hard copies of video games and Internet of Things (IoT) devices such as smartphones, smart watches and even signal devices such as key fobs.

Why Should I Care About Cybersecurity?

cybersecurity

These kinds of attacks are frighteningly versatile, challenging to identify and detect and painfully difficult to remove. Always try to keep track of where your storage devices have been, and do not plug "lost-and-found" USB drives into your computer. Keep your personal and workplace data storage and other devices separate to avoid transferring malware from one system to another, just like washing your hands to prevent the flu from spreading!

Password Tips

One of the first lines of defense for keeping your information safe online is the use of a password.

  • Use different passwords on different accounts. One of the leading causes of unauthorized access to accounts is the reuse of login credentials
  • Use the longest password allowed. The longer and more complicated a password is, the harder it will be for someone to access your accounts. Use 11 characters or more, a short sentence or a mix of letters, symbols and numbers to strengthen your passwords.
  • Reset your password every few months. Reset your passwords regularly, especially when these passwords allow access to confidential accounts, such as banking or medical data. It is vital to reset passwords as it takes most companies an average of six months to notice that a data breach has happened. By the time a data breach is reported, a threat actor could already be using and/or selling your data.
  • Use a password manager. With just one master password, a password manager can generate and retrieve passwords for every account that you have – encrypting and protecting your online information, including credit card numbers and their three-digit Card Verification Value (CVV) codes, answers to security questions and more.

Ways to Protect Yourself

  1. Enable Multifactor Authentication (MFRA)
    You need more than a password to protect your online accounts, and enabling MFA make you significantly less likely to get hacked.
  2. Use a strong password
    Use passwords that are long, unique, and randomly generated.
  3. Recognize and Report Phishing Attacks
    If a link looks a little off, think before you click.
  4. Update Your Software
    Don't delay — if you see a software updated notification, act promptly.
  5. Staying Safe On Social Media
    Use discretion when you post, Your posts will be on the internet forever. Limit what you post online. Do not share your personal information. Turn location notification off and only post what you feel safe and comfortable sharing.
  6. Identity Theft and Internet Scams
    A common internet scam is identity theft, leaving your bank account, credit card or even your social media profile vulnerable. The most important thing you can do is keep your personal information to yourself — avoid providing personal information to any unknown sources or acquaintances.
  7. Working From Home
    With the large shift from tradition to remote work since 2020, people must secure their devices with usernames, passwords and MFA to protect personal and professional information.
  8. Protecting Your Digital Home
    Every year, more of our home devices, like thermostats, door locks and lighting, are connected to the internet to create a smart home. These advances in technology improve efficiency and safety but pose a new set of security risks.

You're Safe With Us

SafeAmerica Credit Union takes your cybersecurity very seriously. We have plans and processes in place to keep your financial information safe. You can rest-assured your accounts are safe with us.

Educational Videos

• By Lisa

Webinar- Staying Safe On The Internet Without Breaking A Sweat

This free, one hour webinar about staying safe on the internet is presented by GreenPath Financial Wellness

If you are reading this, you probably use the internet often, most likely every day. We have heard time and again that we must be careful while online, but even the most diligent among us can take our online safety for granted. Staying safe on the internet can seem overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Join us on Wednesday, December 8 at 10:00 pm PT as Leo Hopper, GreenPath’s Director of Information Security, offers some simple and useful tips on staying safe on the internet.

Click through each tab below to learn more.

Who Should Attend

  • Anyone who uses the internet either regularly or sporadically
  • Those who shop online 
  • Those who would like to use the internet more, but are afraid that they will expose vital information

What You Will Learn

  • How to avoid common traps that can compromise you online
  • How to check site security before you use it
  • How to guard your personal information

Details

Date: Wednesday, December 8, 2021

Time: 10:00 am PST

This webinar will be recorded and a link will be sent out to all registrants after the webinar.

Click the red button below to register.

Register Now

• By Lisa

Free Webinar Spread Joy and Save Money: Make it a Happy and Financially Healthy Season

This free, one hour webinar about Financial Transformation is presented by GreenPath Financial Wellness

Are you already stressed about the upcoming holiday season? Join GreenPath to learn how to  maximize your dollars and create a memorable gift-giving season. We will help you create a plan to set yourself up for success for years to come.

Click through each tab below to learn more.

Who Should Attend

  • Those that want to reduce stress during the holidays
  • Those who have experienced a change in their budget
  • Those that want to maximize the value of gifts given.

What You Will Learn

  • How to spread joy without impacting your wallet
  • Strategies for gift giving
  • How to create lasting memories

Details

Date: Wednesday, November 3, 2021

Time: 10:30 am PST

Register Now

• By Lisa

Playing it Safe on the Internet. Protecting Yourself from Identity Theft – Recorded Webinar

If you are reading this, you use the internet. Over the years the internet has changed how we shop, communicate and consume our news. It has affected how we manage our funds and how we manage our lives. It is an amazing tool that has changed the world. Unfortunately, it is not always safe. There are people whose full-time job is to steal your personal information, which can directly impact your financial wellness.

In today's recorder webinar, brought to you by our partner GreenPath Financial Wellness, you will learn of simple steps which can be taken to be safer on the internet.

GreenPath Financial Wellness is a national nonprofit with 60+ years of helping people from all walks of life with building up their financial health and resiliency.

Director of Information Security with our partner, GreenPath Financial Wellness, joins us to share ways to stay safe online. Watch the recorded webinar below.

Keep an eye out every week this month for new blog posts on the best practices during the time you spend online.

Greenpath Financial Wellness

• By Lisa

Safe Online Shopping

As technology continues to advance, more and more people from all age ranges have learned of the ease of access our personal computers and mobile devices provide for us, especially when it comes to online shopping. With the holiday season fast approaching, its time to review what can be done to keep your personal information safe while shopping online.

The benefits of online shopping are clear, stores are always open. Shipping is only a blink away, you don’t have to deal with crowds.  It’s easy to research and compare products before making a decision and you can find good deals with the click of a mouse. Even discount codes have been shared relentlessly only to further entice the convenience of online shopping.

Click on each tab below to learn more about the topic.

Online Risks

  • You don't always know if a website is secure.
  • You must use a credit or debit card.
  • It can be hard to return an item.
  •  Shipping costs can be expensive.
  • You aren't able to try on before you buy.
  • It's easy to overspend because online shopping can be addicting.

Online Shopping Tips

Keep these tips in mind and you'll be sure to be safe while shopping online:

  • Only provide private information to secure sites that have an “s” after the http (https://). Also, look for a padlock symbol next to the “https.”
  • Check if the website provides clear and detailed contact information. Scam websites often lack specific contact information like phone numbers and addresses.
  • See if there are reviews of a website if you are unsure about it.
  • Use a service like PayPal that doesn’t reveal your private information.
  • If you buy online, always check your credit card statement to make sure everything is correct and that there are not any unwanted or unknown charges.
  • Stick with popular websites that you trust.
  • Check the company’s privacy policy to see how they will use your information.
  • Never click on a random pop-up window. If you don’t know where it came from, close it! Pop-up windows can carry viruses.  If a website generates pop-up windows, you may even want to leave the website.
  • Never send private information, such as a credit card number or a checking account number, in e-mail.
  • In the event of fraud or unwanted charges, it will be more difficult to get your money back if you pay with a debit card than if you pay with a credit card.  Under the Fair Credit and Billing Act, your liability for a lost or stolen credit card is only $50.
  • Do not use an unsecured network or Internet connection to shop online.  Unsecured networks are typically found in public places such as a library or restaurant.

SafeAmerica understands the level of security needed to stay secure while on the internet and during National Cyber Security Awareness Month, we want to help inform our members of the best practices for staying safe online and keeping sensitive information secure.

Keep an eye out every week this month for new blog posts on the best practices during the time you spend online. Safe for surfing the web.

 

• By Lisa

Credit Reports – How to Get Your Annual Credit Report

How to Get Your Free Credit Report

The Fair and Accurate Credit Transactions Act of 2003 (FACT Act) entitles you to receive a free copy of your credit report once a year from each of the reporting companies – Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. The three companies have set up one central website, toll-free telephone number, and mailing address. You can request your free report either online, by phone or even mail by visiting www.AnnualCreditReport.com or calling 1-877-322-8228.

Should Consumers Order All Their Credit Reports at Once or Space Them Out Over 12 Months?

It is entirely your choice whether you order all three credit reports at the same time or order one now and others later. If you request all three at the same time, you can compare them, however you won’t be eligible for another free report for 12 months.  On the other hand, if you space them out, (for example, requesting one report every four months), you can keep track of any changes or new information that may appear on your report. If you order from only one company today you can still order from the other two companies in the future.

Consumer Alert! Beware of Ads Claiming "Free" Credit Reports

Many other websites claim to offer “free credit reports, free credit scores, or free credit monitoring.” But, be careful.  Their claims of “free” are not always no cost. These sites are not part of the official, government-mandated annual free credit report program. In most cases, these sites will provide you with a free credit report and score, and they will attempt to enroll you in some type of credit monitoring or protection service. Before signing up for such a service, do your research and determine if it’s something that you really need. The Federal Trade Commission has received complaints from consumers who thought they were ordering a free annual credit report, but instead paid hidden fees or agreed to unwanted services. Don’t be fooled by misleading TV ads, e-mail offers, or online search results.

Other Situations That Warrant Getting a Free Credit Report

Under federal law, you may be entitled to a free credit report if a company takes “adverse action” against you such as denying an application for credit, insurance, or employment, based on information in the report. In addition, other circumstances include unemployment, receiving welfare benefits, and any report of fraud (including identity theft).

Is it Important to Review Your Credit Report Frequently?

Yes, absolutely! The information in a person’s credit report is used to evaluate applications for credit, loans, insurance, and employment. Therefore, making sure that your information on your credit report is accurate and up-to-date is very important.

It may be helpful to go over your credit report with one of our financial wellness counselors.  Call us to get started today.

GreenPath Financial Wellness

• By Lisa

Own Your Role in Cybersecurity: Start with the Basics

Every individual should own their role in protecting their information and securing their systems and devices. There are many steps individuals can take to enhance their cybersecurity without requiring a significant investment or the help of an information security professional. Below, the National Cyber Security Alliance (NCSA) highlights eight tips you can put into action now:

Definition of Cybersecurity:

Measures taken to protect a computer or computer system (as on the internet) against unauthorized access or attack.

Cybersecurity Basics:

Make a Long and Unique Passphrase

Length trumps complexity. A strong passphrase is a sentence that is at least 12 characters long. Focus on positive sentences or phrases that you like to think about and are easy to remember.

Passphrases Are Not Enough

Use 2-factor authentication or multi-factor authentication (like biometrics, security keys or a unique, one-time code through an app on your mobile device) whenever offered.

When in Doubt, Throw it out

Links in email, tweets, texts, posts, social media messages and online advertising are the easiest way for cyber criminals to get your sensitive information. Be wary of clicking on links or downloading anything that comes from a stranger or that you were not expecting. Essentially, just don't trust links.

Keep a Clean Machine

Keep all software on internet connected devices - inlcuding personal computers, smartphones and tablets - current to reduce risk of infection from ransomware and malware. Configure your devices to automatically update or to notify you when an update is available.

Back it Up

Protect your valuable work, music, photos and other digital information by making an electronic copy and storing it safetly. if you have a copy of your data and your device falls victim to ransomware or other cyber threats, you will be able to restore the data from a backup. Use the 3-2-1 rule as a guide to backing up your data. The rule is: keep at least three (3) copies of your data, and store two (2) back up copies on different storage media, with one (1) of them located offsite.

Own your Online Presence

Every time your sign up for a new account, download a new app, or get a new device, immediately configure the privacy and security settings to your comfort level for information sharing. Regularly check these settings (at least once a year) to make sure they are still configured to your comfort.

Share with Care

Think before posting about yourself and others online. Consider what a post reveals, who might see it and how it might affect you or others. Consider creating an alternate persona that you use for online profiles to limit how much of your own personal information you share.

Get Savvy About WIFI Hotspots

Public wireless networks and hotspots are not secure, which means that anyone could potentially see what you are doing on your laptop or smartphone while you're connected to them. Limit what you do on public WiFi and avoid logging in to key accounts like email and financial services. Consider using a virtual private network (VPN) or a personal/mobile hotspot if you need a more secure connection.

 

SafeAmerica understands the level of security needed to stay secure while on the internet and during National Cyber Security Awareness Month, we want to help inform our members of the best practices for staying safe online and keeping sensitive information secure.

Keep an eye out every week this month for new blog posts on the best practices during the time you spend online. Safe for surfing the web.

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