Monthly Cybersecurity Newsletter

12/1 Protecting Your Online Activity and IoT Devices

Welcome to this month’s cybersecurity newsletter! Over the past two months, we’ve covered securing your home network and individual devices. This month, we’ll focus on protecting your online activity and securing your IoT devices. Some prominent examples of IoT (Internet of Things) devices would be iPads, Smart Watches, Baby Monitors, and camera systems like Ring or SimpliSafe.

1. Be Cautious with Emails

Always be wary of email attachments and links from unknown or suspicious sources. Phishing attempts often use fraudulent emails to trick you into disclosing sensitive information. Verify the sender’s email address before taking any action.

2. Verify Website Security

Before entering personal information on a website, ensure it uses Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure (HTTPS) and look for a secure connection symbol (a padlock icon) in your browser’s address bar. This indicates that the site encrypts your data.

3. Use a Virtual Private Network (VPN)

A VPN encrypts your internet connection and hides your Internet Protocol (IP) address, providing an additional layer of privacy and security, especially when using public Wi-Fi.

4. Monitor Financial Statements

Regularly review your bank and credit card statements for any unauthorized transactions. Report any discrepancies to your financial institution immediately.

5. Secure Your IoT Devices

• Change Default Credentials: Many IoT devices come with default usernames and passwords. Change these to unique, strong credentials to prevent unauthorized access.

• Update Device Firmware: Regularly check for and install firmware updates for your IoT devices. These updates often contain security patches to protect against vulnerabilities.

• Segment Your Network: Consider setting up a separate network for your IoT devices. This helps contain any potential security issues to a specific segment of your network.

• Disable Unnecessary Features: Turn off features or services on your IoT devices that you do not use, reducing the attack surface.

6. Responding to Cybersecurity Incidents

If you suspect a device is compromised:

• Disconnect it from the network to prevent further spread of malware.

• Run a full antivirus scan.

• Change passwords for affected accounts and devices.

• Notify relevant institutions if personal or financial information is compromised.

• Seek professional help if needed.

By implementing these practices, you’ll be well-equipped to protect your online activities and IoT devices. Stay vigilant and proactive to maintain a secure digital environment.

11/1 Securing Your Devices

Welcome back to our monthly cybersecurity newsletter! Last month, we covered how to secure your home network. This month, we shift focus to securing individual devices—an essential aspect of your overall cybersecurity strategy.

1. Install Antivirus Software

Protect your devices from malicious software by installing reputable antivirus software. Ensure that the software is regularly updated to defend against the latest threats.

2. Enable Automatic Updates

Keep your operating system, applications, and antivirus software updated automatically. Updates often include critical security patches that address newly discovered vulnerabilities.

3. Use Strong and Unique Passwords

Create strong passwords for all your accounts and devices. Avoid reusing passwords across different platforms. A password manager can help generate and store complex passwords securely.

4. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

Enhance your account security by enabling 2FA wherever possible. This adds an extra layer of protection by requiring a second form of verification in addition to your password.

5. Lock Your Devices

Ensure that all your devices are locked with passwords, PINs, or biometric features (like fingerprint or facial recognition). This prevents unauthorized access in case your device is lost or stolen.

6. Regular Backups

Regularly back up your important data to an external drive or cloud storage. This ensures that you can recover your files in the event of data loss due to a cyber-attack. By taking these steps, you’ll significantly enhance the security of your individual devices.

Next month, we’ll explore how to safeguard your online activity and protect yourself while surfing the web.

10/24 - Securing Your Home Network

Welcome to this month’s cybersecurity newsletter! As we continue to navigate our digital lives, securing our home network is the first line of defense against cyber threats. This month, we’ll focus on foundational steps to ensure your home network is secure and resilient.

1. Change Default Router Settings

Many routers come with default usernames and passwords that are easily guessable. To start securing your network, change these default credentials to something unique and complex. This simple step can significantly enhance your network’s security.

2. Use Strong Encryption

Ensure that your Wi-Fi network is using the strongest encryption available. For most modern routers, this will be WPA3. If WPA3 is not available, WPA2 is a good alternative. Avoid using WEP, as it is outdated and vulnerable to attacks.

3. Create a Strong Wi-Fi Password

A strong Wi-Fi password should be a mix of letters, numbers, and special characters. Avoid easily guessable passwords and consider using a passphrase that’s both secure and memorable.

4. Enable Network Firewall

Most routers come with built-in firewalls that can block malicious traffic. Ensure this feature is activated to protect your network from external threats.

5. Update Router Firmware

Regularly check for and apply firmware updates for your router. Firmware updates often contain important security patches that protect against newly discovered vulnerabilities.

By following these steps, you’ll lay a solid foundation for securing your home network. Stay tuned for next month’s newsletter, where we’ll dive into securing individual devices to further strengthen your home cybersecurity.

9/24 - Protect Yourself from Cyber Threats

Financial institutions have an important responsibility to educate customers and protect them from fraud. In today's digital world, scammers are constantly looking for new ways to steal personal and financial information. As a member, you should take steps to keep your information secure, including using strong passwords, being cautious of suspicious emails or calls, and monitoring your accounts regularly for unauthorized activity. By working together, financial institutions and members can help create a safer online environment for managing money. Protecting your finances in the digital age requires vigilance, smart practices, and partnerships between individuals and their chosen financial providers. At Department of Corrections Credit Union, we're proud to promote online safety and education.

Here are a few tips to help protect yourself online and keep your money secure.

Use Strong Passwords

One of the easiest ways for cybercriminals to access your bank accounts is by guessing weak passwords. Always create long, complex passwords that are difficult to crack. Use a mix of upper and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. Avoid common words and personal information. Enable two-factor authentication for an extra layer of security.

Keep Software Updated

Hackers look for vulnerabilities in outdated software to break in. Ensure you install the latest updates on all devices and apps as soon as they become available. Turn on automatic updates where possible. Update operating systems, web browsers, antivirus software, and banking apps regularly.

Watch Out for Phishing Scams

Phishing uses fraudulent emails or websites to trick users into sharing personal information. Watch for typos, threatening language, or anything suspicious in messages. Verify the sender's address if unsure. Never click links or open attachments from unknown sources. Always type in your bank's website URL directly rather than following links.

Use Secured WiFi

Public WiFi networks can allow cybercriminals to view your activity and steal data. Avoid accessing any sensitive accounts over public WiFi. Stick to cellular data or use a VPN if you need to connect. At home, make sure your wireless router and network are secured with strong encryption.

Monitor Accounts Closely

Routinely check your bank statements and credit reports for any unauthorized activity. Report any suspicious transactions to your bank immediately. Set up text or email alerts from your bank for certain account actions. This way you can catch fraud quickly. With the increasing prevalence of cybercrime, it's more important than ever to take extra precautions in safeguarding your finances. By following cybersecurity best practices, you can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to digital threats and keep your hard-earned money safe. Remember to stay vigilant and keep up-to-date with the latest security measures to ensure the protection of your finances.