SECURITY TIPS TO PROTECT YOUR DATA In the spirit of driving awareness about the importance of being cyber-aware, and to help you protect the integrity of your data, here are some simple tips not to be overlooked: • Avoid uploading sensitive or confidential data (personal or customer account information, Social Security numbers, etc.). If you must, all information should only be uploaded to a trusted, secure source or database. • Be aware of any suspicious emails and do not click on unfamiliar embedded links. Be especially wary if an email contains misspelled words within the body and/or subject line of the message. Other suspicious indicators include unfamiliar email domains or enticements to act or respond immediately. Report these emails to your organization’s IT Support team right away. • Lock your screen when you are away from your desk to prevent others from accessing sensitive information. • Beware of public Wi-Fi. It can expose your data to scammers monitoring internet activity. It also greatly increases the risk of malware being transferred to your devices. If you must access a public Wi-Fi network, use a virtual private network (VPN) to add a helpful layer of security. • Find out if your personal information has been targeted in a data breach. It is quick and quite easy to do. Simply enter your email or phone number at haveibeenpwned.com. The system will respond almost immediately, detailing when and where your data was breached. • Before disposing of old IT equipment, ensure no personal data remains on the system. Consider hiring a specialist to wipe the data from the device or use deletion software such as BitRaser File Eraser or File Shredder. YOUR ROLE IN DATA PRIVACY Cybersecurity is everyone’s business. With a little discipline and practice, protecting the integrity of your data can become second nature. Nobody wants to be the person who accidentally downloads malware onto their company’s systems, or who leaves their online banking credentials vulnerable to external threats. Following and regularly repeating a few simple security protocols is well worth the time to remain cyber-safe at home and at the office. 1. https://explodingtopics.com/blog/data-privacy-stats 2. https://www.bintelligence.com/blog/2022/6/7/100-named-in-2022-fortresscyber-security-awards Personal data is continuously being collected, shared or sold, so it is crucial that everyone understands how to protect it. Community Banker 23
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