October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month, and it's a great reminder that online safety is more important than ever. This initiative highlights that simple actions can make a big difference when it comes to protecting yourself against online threats and the systems you rely on every day.
We're committed to helping our members stay one step ahead of fraud. Let's walk through what you need to know to protect yourself and your accounts.
Four Essential Practices to Protect Your Accounts
Cybersecurity experts recommend four key steps to provide the basic protection your accounts and personal information need. These practices work together to create multiple layers of security, making it extremely difficult for scammers to access your accounts.
1. Create Strong, Unique Passwords
Your passwords are like keys to your most valuable possessions. Using the same password across multiple accounts is risky because if someone gets that one password, they potentially have access to everything.
Best password practices:
- Make each password unique, especially for your financial accounts and email.
- Use at least 12 characters with a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols.
- Consider using a password manager to generate and store complex passwords securely.
2. Turn On Multifactor Authentication
This is one of the most impactful steps you can take to keep your accounts secure. Multifactor authentication adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second form of verification before allowing access to your account. This is usually a code sent to your phone or generated by an authenticator app.
Even if someone manages to steal your password, they still can't get in without that second verification step. You should enable multifactor authentication on your financial accounts, email, and anywhere else that offers it.
3. Recognize Phishing Attempts
Keep an eye out for phishing and other scam attempts in emails, texts, direct messages, and phone calls. With artificial intelligence making these scams more convincing than ever, fraudsters can now create legitimate-looking emails, realistic fake websites, and even voice calls that sound exactly like trusted organizations.
Red flags to watch for:
- Messages that create urgency or pressure you to act immediately.
- Requests for passwords, PINs, account numbers, or security codes.
- Links or attachments from unfamiliar senders.
- Offers that seem too good to be true.
Always verify the sender before clicking links or downloading attachments. If you spot a scam, report it to us and to the Federal Trade Commission at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
4. Keep Your Software Updated
Staying on top of software updates is an easy way to ensure your devices and apps are protected from known vulnerabilities that criminals actively look for and exploit. When you delay updates, you could be leaving known security gaps open.
Set your devices and apps to update automatically whenever possible. This keeps you protected with the latest security improvements without you having to remember to check.
Current Scam Tactics to Watch For
Understanding what scammers are doing right now helps you spot their attempts before you become a victim.
AI-Generated Voice Scams
Scammers can use artificial intelligence to create fake voices that sound exactly like your bank, a government official, or even a family member. These calls can be incredibly convincing because they often include personal details gathered from social media or previous data breaches.
How to protect yourself:
- If you receive an unexpected call asking for money or sensitive information, hang up immediately.
- Verify the caller's identity by contacting the organization directly using its official phone number. Never use contact information the caller provides.
- Set up a secret code word with family members to verify their identity during emergency calls.
Online Marketplace Fraud
Online marketplaces like Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, and other resale platforms make it easy to buy and sell items, but they’ve also become popular targets for scammers. Some fraudsters post fake listings to trick buyers into sending payments for items that don’t exist. Others pose as buyers, “accidentally” overpay, and then ask you to send back the difference. In both cases, the goal is to get your money before you realize something’s wrong.
Stay safe when buying or selling online:
- Use only trusted marketplace platforms and verified payment methods.
- Be cautious of buyers or sellers who rush you to act quickly.
- Avoid clicking links or sharing personal or banking information through messages.
Extra Steps for Stronger Account Security
1. Set Up Account Alerts
One of the smartest moves you can make is enabling alerts through Credit Union of America's digital banking. You'll receive instant notifications about important account activity.
How to set up alerts:
- Log in to your digital banking account.
- Click on your profile icon.
- Select "Settings."
- Choose "Alerts."
- Enable the notifications you want to receive.
2. Monitor Your Accounts Regularly
Don't wait for your monthly statement to review your account activity! Instead, check your banking accounts every few days. The faster you spot an unauthorized transaction, the faster we can help you address it.
3. Never Share Personal Information
Remember that CUA will never call or text you asking for sensitive information such as your social security number, account number, card numbers, online banking username and password, or PIN. If someone reaches out to you requesting this information, please do not respond. If you have concerns about a fraudulent CUA phone call or text, please contact us directly.
We're Here to Support You
Protecting yourself from fraud requires awareness, a few good habits, and knowing when to pause and verify before taking action.
This Cybersecurity Awareness Month, take a few minutes to strengthen your defenses and make sure you’re able to recognize common scam tactics. These simple steps create powerful protection for your accounts and your peace of mind.
For more tips and tools to protect your finances, please click below.
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