Every day, we rely on technology to connect, shop, and manage our finances. That’s why cybersecurity is more important than ever, especially when it comes to your banking. Cyber Security Awareness Month is a great reminder that staying safe online doesn’t have to be complicated. By adopting just a few simple habits, you can help protect yourself, your loved ones, and even your small business from online threats. 

At Family First Credit Union, safeguarding our members’ personal and financial information is always a top priority. We are constantly identifying new security measures and advancements that enable us to better protect your data, prevent fraud, and allow you to bank online with confidence, but the strongest defense comes from working together. Here are five easy ways to boost your online safety and keep your information secure.

1. Use Strong Passwords (and Don’t Reuse Them)

Your passwords are the keys to your digital world – make sure they’re strong and secure. 

• Use long, unique passwords for every account. A short phrase or a few random words can be easier to remember and harder to guess. 
• Avoid reusing passwords across different websites or apps. If one gets hacked, others could follow. 
• Use a password manager to help create and safely store strong passwords so you don’t have to remember them all. 

Taking a few minutes to strengthen your passwords today can save you a lot of trouble later. 

2. Turn On Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) adds an extra layer of protection to your accounts. It’s a simple step like entering a code from your phone or using your fingerprint to confirm it’s really you logging in. 

Turn on MFA for your most important accounts, such as online banking, email, and social media. Even if someone steals your password, MFA can help keep your information safe. 

3. Keep Your Software Updated

Keeping your devices up to date is one of the easiest ways to protect against hackers and strengthen your data security. Software updates don’t just add new features; they also fix security weaknesses that could expose your personal or financial information. This is one of the most common cybersecurity risks in banking.

• Turn on automatic updates whenever possible. 
• Keep your apps, browsers, and operating systems current. 
• Don’t ignore those “update available” reminders- they’re protecting you. 

At Family First, we regularly update our systems and fraud detection software to help safeguard your accounts. Think of it like routine maintenance for your digital life, quick, easy, and essential. 

4. Recognize and Report Scams

Online scams and phishing attempts are getting harder to spot, but staying alert makes a big difference. Be cautious of messages that seem urgent, request personal information, or come from unknown senders. 

Here’s how to protect yourself: 

• Pause before clicking links or downloading attachments from unfamiliar emails or texts. 
• Double-check the sender’s email address or phone number for misspellings or unusual details. 
• Never share personal or financial information unless you’re certain who you’re talking to.
• If you ever receive a suspicious message that appears to be from a legitimate company, contact them directly using the phone number or email address listed on their official website. 

When in doubt, it’s always safer to ask before you click. Recognizing scams early is one of the best forms of fraud management.

4. Secure Your Remote Connections

Whether you’re working from home, traveling, or using public Wi-Fi, make sure your connections are safe and private. 

• Avoid using public WiFi for sensitive activities like online banking or shopping. 
• Use a VPN (Virtual Private Network) when connecting over public networks. 
• Keep your devices locked with a strong password, fingerprint or facial scan. 

Your online safety, especially your internet banking security, should travel with you, no matter where you log in. 

Building a Cyber Strong Community, Together 

At Family First Credit Union, we’re committed to keeping your financial information safe and giving you the tools to protect yourself online. From secure digital banking platforms to proactive fraud management and a focus on ensuring data privacy in banking, our team works every day to make sure your accounts stay protected.

Together, we can help everyone stay safe online and build a stronger, more secure digital community.