Security at Home and on the Go

How to keep your information safe wherever you are

In today’s digital world, it is more important than ever to take steps to protect your data. This is especially true when it comes to your financial information. Hackers are constantly trying to find new ways to steal your personal data, so it is important to be vigilant both at home and on the go.

Cyber safety at home

1. Use a strong Wi-Fi password and enable encryption
   Your Wi-Fi password should ideally be at least 12 characters long and include a mix of upper and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. You should also enable encryption on your Wi-Fi router to protect your data from being intercepted by unauthorized users.
2. Keep your software up to date
   Software updates often include security patches that can help to protect your devices from known vulnerabilities. Be sure to install software updates as soon as they are available.
3. Use a firewall and antivirus software
   A firewall can help to protect your devices from unauthorized access, while antivirus software can help to detect and remove malware.
4. Be careful about clicking links and attachments
   Phishing emails are a common way for hackers to steal your personal information. Be careful about what links you click on ! and what attachments you open in emails, even if they appear to be from a legitimate source. Learn how to spot the latest scams.
5. Use strong passwords
   Your passwords should be at least 12 characters long and include a mix of upper and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. Avoid using words or phrases that would be easy to guess.
6. Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA)
   Whether you're shopping online or using an app, MFA adds an extra layer of security by requiring you to enter a code from your phone or email in addition to your password.

Staying safe while traveling

1. Be careful about using public Wi-Fi
   Public Wi-Fi networks are often unsecured, which means your data could be intercepted. If you must use public Wi-Fi, avoid accessing sensitive information, such as your bank account or email. You can use a VPN (virtual private network) to encrypt your data and protect your privacy.
2. Keep your devices close to you
   When you are traveling, keep your devices close to you at all times. Do not leave them unattended in public places, like airports or hotel lobbies.
3. Be careful about what information you share online
   Avoid sharing personal information, like your bank account number or home address, on social media or other public websites.
4. Monitor your accounts regularly
   Review your bank statements and credit reports regularly for suspicious activity. If you notice anything unusual, contact your bank immediately.

Related cybersecurity tips

1. Use a password manager
   A password manager can help you create and store strong, unique passwords for all your online accounts.
2. Back up your data regularly
   Back up your data to an external hard drive or cloud storage service so you can recover it if something happens to your devices.
3. Beware of social engineering attacks
   Social engineering attacks are designed to trick you into revealing personal information or performing actions that compromise your security. These attacks can be carried out in person, over the phone, or online. Be careful about who you give your personal information to, and be wary of any requests that seem unusual or suspicious.

Additional tips for keeping your financial information safe

1. Never give your financial information to someone who calls you out of the blue
   Banks and other financial institutions will never call you and ask for your Social Security number, bank account number, or password. If you receive a call like this, hang up immediately and contact your bank directly.
2. Be careful about what websites you enter your financial information on
   Only enter your financial information on websites that are secure. You can tell if a website is secure by looking for the https:// prefix in the URL and the lock icon in the address bar.
3. Keep your bank's contact information handy
   If you think your information or your accounts have been compromised, contact your bank immediately. They can help you to take steps to protect your accounts and minimize any damage.

How to get in touch

And if have any questions you think you may have been a victim of digital fraud, our customer care center is always here for you. Call us at 888-NCB-FIRST (622-3477) or email us at [email protected].