Cybersecurity Awareness: Protecting Your Finances and Personal Data

Cybersecurity Awareness: Protecting Your Finances and Personal Data

Here at Red Rocks Credit Union, we prioritize our members' security and work around the clock to protect your financial information. In an age where digital transactions and online accounts are the norm, it's important to take proactive steps toward cybersecurity. With October being Cybersecurity Awareness Month, there's no better time to share some valuable tips to help you stay secure online. 

1. Use Strong, Unique Passwords
Your first line of defense against cybercriminals is creating a strong password. To do this, avoid using simple, predictable passwords like "password" or your name and birth year. A strong password should:

• Be at least 12 characters long
• Include a mix of upper and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters
• Be unique for each of your accounts. We advise that you DO NOT use the same password for multiple online accounts because if a cybercriminal gets a hold of that password, they can access multiple accounts.
• Consider using a password manager to keep track of all passwords in a secure fashion.

Two-factor authentication provides an extra layer of security for your online accounts. By requiring a second form of verification (such as a text message or a code sent to your email), you ensure that even if someone gains access to your password, they won't be able to log in without the additional authentication step. 

Phishing scams are fraudulent attempts to get sensitive information like usernames, passwords, and bank details by posing as a trustworthy source, often through email or text messages. Here are some ways to spot phishing attempts:

• Look for odd or unfamiliar sender addresses and names
• Be cautious of links and attachments from unknown sources
• Watch for urgent or threatening language, such as "act now" or "verify your account immediately"

Please note - Red Rocks Credit Union will NEVER call our members requesting personal account information (including SSN). If you receive a call, hang up and give us a call back at 303.471.7625. 

One of the most effective ways to catch suspicious activity early is by monitoring your accounts. You know your spending habits better than anyone else. Frequently check your transaction history and ensure that each charge is one you've made or authorized. With the Red Rocks CU Online and Mobile Banking app, you can monitor your accounts in real-time, which will give you immediate visibility into your financial activity.

If you spot anything unusual, report it to us immediately so we can investigate and take steps to protect your account.

5. Be Mindful of Public Wi-Fi

While public Wi-Fi networks in places like cafes and airports are convenient, they can be risky. These networks are often unencrypted, meaning anyone on the same network can potentially intercept your data. If you need to access your financial accounts while on the go, consider using a personal hotspot or a virtual private network (VPN) to keep your data secure. 

We're Here to Help! 

It is a team effort to be cybersecure and we're here to support you every step of the way. If you ever suspect suspicious activity on your financial accounts, or have any questions about safeguarding your account, please don't hesitate to reach out to our Red Rockers. Together, we can create a safer digital space for everyone. 

Stay safe, stay vigilant, and thank you for being a valued member of Red Rocks Credit Union.