Monthly Cybersecurity Newsletter

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.