October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month so it’s a great time to take a few steps to help secure your data. Hackers and scammers steal billions of dollars every year from people who fall for scams or just don’t have good security measures in place. Here are some things you can do today to strengthen your cyber security.
- Keep Your Software Up-to-Date
Be sure to turn on the automatic system updates for your computer or mobile device. Desktop web browsers also have automatic security updates; be sure to use them. You should also keep your browser’s plugins (Flash, Java, etc.) updated.
- Use Anti-Virus Protection & Firewall
Use anti-virus software from trusted vendors only. It’s also a good idea to never run more than one anti-virus tool on your device. A firewall screens which traffic can enter your device by keeping out hackers and viruses.
- Use Strong Passwords
According to the National Institute of Standards and Technology’s (NIST) 2017 new password policy framework:
- Use a memorable password between 8 and 64 characters.
- Never use the same password twice.
- Your password should contain at least one uppercase letter, one lowercase letter, one number, and four symbols but not: & % # @ _.
- Choose something that you can remember, but do not leave a written hint out in the open.
- Reset your password when you forget it. Always refresh your password at least once a year.
- Use Two-Factor or Multi-Factor Authentication
Two-factor (aka multi-factor) authentication adds an additional layer of security to the standard username + password combination. Two-factor authentication requires that you enter an additional form of ID, such as a Personal Identification Code, a code generated by an app or even a fingerprint or face scan.
- Watch Out for Phishing scams
In a phishing scheme, attackers pose as someone or something else to trick you into divulging credentials, clicking a malicious link or opening an attachment that infects your system with malware. This often leads to a ransomware attack. To be safe, never open email from people you don’t know and trust.
- Use Your Mobile Devices Securely
- Create a difficult mobile passcode (not your birthdate or bank PIN).
- Install apps from only trusted sources.
- Keep your device updated.
- Do not send personal or sensitive information over text message or email.
- Use Trusted Online and Mobile Banking
With so many people using online and mobile apps for banking, it helps to know that Queensborough National Bank and Trust uses the best cybersecurity techniques, technology and procedures in the industry to protect your financial information. If you want to know more about how we keep your data secure, contact us and we will be happy to help.
Founded in 1902, Queensborough National Bank & Trust Co. is Georgia’s community bank with more than 25 locations throughout Georgia. Queensborough was named the Best Small Bank in Georgia for 2021 by Newsweek.
For more information, visit www.QNBTRUST.bank and find Queensborough on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, YouTube and Instagram.