Cybersecurity Corner | Staying Safe in a Digital World - Tips and Tricks
Blog Author: Malissa Norris
January 27, 2025
Staying Safe in a Digital World: Tips and Tricks
I know today's world is full of challenges, and keeping your personal information safe is no small task. I'm happy to share with you some things that I have learned along the way.
Trust Your Gut
The most important thing to remember is: If a situation does not seem right, chances are it's not. Trust your gut.
Handling Suspicious Calls
If you get a call, and the stranger is asking a lot of questions you don't feel comfortable answering, hang up and call the company back at the number listed on their website.
Responding to Suspicious Texts or Emails
If you get a text message or an email from a stranger asking you to share information or telling you to complete something to access your account, stop and think. Do not click on the links or download content. Report and delete the message or email.
Protecting Yourself from Money Scams
If a stranger calls and is telling you to protect your money by sending money, do not do this! This is not true! Fraudsters have learned how to use our emotions against us. So, stop and think.
Taking Proactive Steps
We may not be able to stop them, but we can educate ourselves and learn how to be safe. We can update our passwords, enable two-factor authentication, and keep software updated.
Helpful Password Reminders
Here are some helpful password reminders:
- Change your passwords often and do not use the same password for different accounts.
- Create phrases with words and numbers; the longer, the better.
- Set up two-step authentication to get into your accounts.
- Keep your password list safe and secure.
- Use security questions less likely to be guessed by anyone.
- Do not share information about yourself online, then use it for a password or security question.
Staying Vigilant
These are just a few things that we can do to protect ourselves. And we must protect ourselves! These fraudsters are coming up with new tactics and ways to take what is ours. So, we have to educate and be vigilant.
A Word About Romance Scams
With February around the corner, romance scams will be in the air. Please remember that not everyone is who they say they are, and if it seems too good to be true.... It probably is. Stop and think. Talk about this with someone who knows you, or call Primetrust. We want everyone to be safe.
Have a great day on purpose!
About the Author - Malissa Norris, Fraud Specialist
Hello, my name is Malissa, the Fraud Specialist at Primetrust FCU. I believe in working hard, doing the right thing, and continuous learning. I look forward to sharing knowledge on how to be proactive against fraud. Although we can't stop fraudsters, we can take preventive measures. My team and I will share many ideas on this site, and you can always visit a branch or call us.
Today's world is digital, and online presence is huge. Remember, not everyone online has good intentions. Fraudsters often research victims before attacking, using information shared on social media. I’m not saying don't post, but be aware of the risks. Avoid sharing information you might use for passwords, logins, or security questions. Keep some personal information private—like a secret. Think back to childhood secrets: that's how we should treat our logins, passwords, card info, financial institutions, etc. These things should never be shared, and information we do share shouldn't be used for those purposes.
About PrimeTrust Federal Credit Union
PrimeTrust Federal Credit Union’s mission is to provide financial advantage to members in a way that promotes their overall quality of life. PrimeTrust is a not-for-profit financial cooperative owned and governed by members. Deposits are used to provide loans to other members, and excess profits are reinvested in better-rates and low- and no-fee services. At PrimeTrust, stories matter. Stories like yours. You have goals for your family and your future, goals that deserve a financial provider who knows more about you than just your credit score. That’s exactly the kind of personal attention you’ll receive at PrimeTrust. As a National Credit Union Association (NCUA) community-charted credit union, PrimeTrust is able to provide membership to any business or person who lives, works, worships, or goes to school in Delaware, Madison, Henry, Hamilton, and Hancock counties.
We hope you enjoy reading, and please share any questions, comments, or suggestions!
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