Every single one of us lives in a world that’s far more digital than it was 10 years ago. Look around your home and consider just how many devices you own that are connected to the internet. There are obvious devices like your laptop and your smartphone, but what about your TV or streaming stick? Your smart speaker? Even home security systems and appliances can now connect to the internet.
Our connected lives deliver all sorts of convenience and productivity upgrades that previous generations could hardly imagine. However, there’s a dark side too – all this connectivity creates increased opportunities for cyberattacks.
It doesn’t seem like hackers would have much interest in your smart fridge or connected coffee machine, right? That’s true to a point, but they do have an interest in sneaking into more sensitive connected devices, and an insecure appliance or security device could be the access point they need.
As the world continues to become more connected, we all need to stay aware and keep our personal information out of the hands of cybercriminals.
There is a wide range of tactics for staying safe online. Let’s get started with some basic strategies.
Basic Cyber Safety Strategies
- Use great caution before sharing sensitive data (like your bank account number, Social Security number, or credit card number). Always think twice and make sure you trust the site you’re on.
- Stick to trusted, well-known sites, especially when shopping.
- Only share personal information on secure sites that begin with “https://.”
- Avoid using public Wi-Fi for browsing that will reveal sensitive data (banking, online shopping). This is especially important to remember if you’re traveling next month for the Thanksgiving holiday and want to get ahead on your holiday shopping!
- Ensure that the privacy settings on your devices are turned on.
- Download with caution.
- Never open links shared by someone you don’t know and be skeptical even if they appear to come from someone you may know. If that person sounds different or is unusually urgent, it could be a phishing scam.
- Always choose strong, unique passwords.
- Don’t fall victim to sweepstakes and lottery scams
- Protect the older adults in your life from elder abuse scams
You may already be doing most if not all of these things, and that’s great. If you notice anything on this list that isn’t yet a part of your routine, now’s the time to make an adjustment.
Keeping Up with Evolving Cyber Threats
Now it’s time to go beyond the basics. Cybercriminals are getting more sophisticated every day. Use these strategies to keep yourself safe when using computers, smartphones, gaming systems, and any other internet-connected devices.
Phishing schemes: Scammers are getting better at creating digital messages that impersonate a bank, store, or company with which you have an account. They will try to fool you into sharing your sensitive information. Don’t take the bait.
Secure your home network: Ensure your home Wi-Fi network is using modern security and is password protected. With the rise in work from home, hackers are using weak home networks to break into secure company files.
Game with caution: If you or your children play online video games, it’s important to know they are sensitive to cybersecurity threats, including account theft. Some consoles even have basic web browsers and are susceptible to browser-based attacks. Treat gaming platforms like you would other accounts. Keep your password safe so hackers don't get their hands on your credit card or other sensitive information.
For additional advanced tips, check out 6 Important Ways to Help Keep Your Identity from Scammers.
Have You Experienced a Cyber Attack or Identity Theft?
The advice we’ve shared so far includes various strategies to help keep you safe moving forward, but what if you’ve already been victimized?
If you believe you’ve had a sensitive account compromised or see signs of identity theft, here’s what to do.
First, notify your banks and credit card companies if you see suspicious charges on your statements or accounts you didn’t open, and always be on the lookout for these red flags.
If you identify suspicious activity on your Lakeland Bank account, please call us at 866-224-1379 for assistance. Additionally, you can use Card Control within our Mobile Banking app to lock your debit card 24/7.
Next, if you’ve been criminally victimized report the attack to the proper authorities. Any victim of a cybercrime should immediately notify local authorities. Below is a list of the government organizations you can file a complaint with.
Report computer or network vulnerabilities to US-CERT through their reporting system or call 1-888-282-0870. You can also report phishing attempts by sending an email to the Anti-Phishing Working Group.
Report fraud to the Federal Trade Commission.
Report identity theft and get a recovery plan.
If you are a victim of an online crime, file a complaint with the Internet Crime Complaint Center – a partnership between the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the National White-Collar Crime Center.
If you believe someone is using your Social Security number, contact the Social Security Administration fraud hotline at 1-800-269-0271 or fill out the scam reporting form. For additional resources and to learn more about submitting a report, visit their website.
Stay Up to Date with Lakeland
Cybersecurity threats are evolving quickly, and they show no signs of slowing down. Protect yourself and your family by continuing to stay up to date on the most recent scams. Visit our Identity Theft Information Center to discover more resources on Privacy & Cybersecurity so you don’t fall victim. We’re constantly adding new content that can help keep you safe.