Don’t get tricked this October. Give yourself the treat of protecting your identity.

This October make sure YOU are protected from having your identity stolen or your data compromised. As part of Cybersecurity Awareness Month, the experts at Atlantic Union Bank have compiled a list of the most important steps you can take to secure yourself and your data from scammers.

1. Know how to send data safely. In a world that is always online, there are many times where you will use the internet to transmit data. Both at home and at work, you should ensure that any information you put online is shared safely. That can mean using apps that are encrypted, password protecting documents, and more. Whatever you choose, it’s important to ensure your information is safe when online.
2. Enable multi-factor authentication. Multi-factor authentication (also known as 2-factor authentication) is when you need more than just a password to get into an account. Often, this takes the form of a text message or an email sent when you try to access an account that contains a time-limited code for you to enter. There are also mobile apps like Google Authenticator you may be asked to use. This ensures that even if your password is compromised somehow, there is another layer of security for your account. Make sure that any accounts that offer multi-factor authentication have that option turned on to keep your accounts as safe as possible.
3. Use a strong password. It can seem as though almost any website you visit now requires you to create an account and have a password for it. That can make it difficult to come up with a strong password for every website, or it can encourage people to use one password across websites. However, it’s still important to use a strong, unique password everywhere one is required. One way to keep on top of all your passwords can be to use a password manager, which will store your passwords for you so you can easily use a different one everywhere one is needed.
4. Be aware of phishing attacks. A phishing attack is when someone tries to send you a seemingly legitimate communication, but they are really looking to gain access to your data or otherwise compromise your computer network. Anytime you receive an email or a text message with a link, be sure that you know who sent that link before clicking on it. If you’re not sure who has sent you an email (and be sure to check for typos in their email address – those can indicate an imposter!), do not click on any links in that email.
5. Keep your software updated. Many software updates patch security vulnerabilities that either respond to new threats or offer stronger protections against old ones. Ensuring that all of your software is updated regularly will help keep you and your information secure.

For more information, check out our Security and Fraud center. If you’re a business owner, you might benefit from some of our products that offer extra protection for business accounts. Get more information on how to protect your business here.
 

And, if you’re looking for an even more comprehensive look at the best ways to protect yourself and any data you might be using, check out the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) has resources for  consumers and also offer cybersecurity advice for businesses.