Cybercrime is becoming more and more frequent, and there are many points of vulnerability for consumers in the digital world today. It is incredibly important that our members protect their online presence and financial information in order to prevent fraud or even identity theft. In partnership with the TN Department of Financial Institutions, we are providing you with a list of resources and skills to protect yourself and your family. Together, we can work towards a safer digital landscape!

1. Create strong passwords. Creating strong passwords is an easy way to improve your cyber security. Strong passwords include one uppercase letter, one lowercase letter, at least one number and 11 or more characters. Be sure to use different passwords for different accounts.

2. Personal information. Never provide personal information to any unknown sources or acquaintances either over the phone or in person. This includes social security number, date of birth, addresses, or financial account numbers.

3. Update software. If you see a software update notification, don’t delay. Take the time to install the latest software as it helps protect your device from hackers.

4. Person-to-person payments. Person-To-Person (P2P) payment apps are so convenient, but they can also be a target for hackers. Make sure you’re using them wisely. Only send money to people you know and trust, and always choose two-factor identification and use a PIN when possible.

5. Public Wi-Fi. Connecting to public Wi-Fi? Cyber criminals can use this to hack into your computer. Secure your devices with usernames, passwords, and Multi-Factor Authentication to protect personal and professional information. Also, always avoid using public computers when accessing banking services or shopping online. Public computers may have a variety of spyware programs that record every keystroke.

6. Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA). You need more than a password to protect your online accounts, and enabling MFA makes you significantly less likely to get hacked. MFA (or two-step verification) is a security method that requires users to provide more than just a password to log in to an account, like pin numbers, face scans or fingerprints, authentication through an app, or a confirmation text or email.

8. Suspicious links. Never click a link from someone you don’t know, that looks suspicious, or that makes an offer which is too good to be true.This could be a phishing attack from hackers.

9. Protect your 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. Make sure your home network is secure by regularly updating your password, securing your network, and setting up your firewall.

10. Traveling. Don’t make yourself a target for criminals by announcing you are traveling on social media. You are telling the whole world that no one is home. Protect yourself and your belongings.

11. Shopping online. Monitor your accounts regularly. Make sure that all transactions posted to your accounts are ones you have authorized. Report any suspected fraudulent or suspicious activity to KPCU immediately at (423) 378-9292. Also, always look for the “S” in https:// in the web address bar. These sites take extra security measures to protect from cyber criminals.

12. Elder abuse. Older adults are more vulnerable to cyber attacks and identity theft. Do your part and share these cyber security tips with family and friends. Report any suspected Elder Abuse here or call 1-888-APS-TENN.

Want to learn more? Click here for more education from the TN Department of Financial Institutions on how to protect yourself and your family.