Online Safety Tips

Living in this modern digital era, our dependency on computers, smartphones, tablets, smart TVs, and constant engagement on social media platforms puts us at risk of cybercriminals looking to exploit and abuse our private data.

Having numerous online accounts and devices heightens vulnerability to security breaches. However, by staying informed, individuals can significantly reduce the chances of becoming a victim of identity theft and other scams.

Online Safety Tips:

   Password Management

It is essential to have a distinct password for each website, as most platforms now mandate the use of diverse characters like letters, numbers, and special symbols. Ensure that your passwords are unique, easy to recall, and composed of longer phrases. The more distinctive your passwords are, the higher the difficulty for potential hackers to decipher them. 

Tip: A password manager is the simplest, most secure way to manage unique passwords. Think of it as a personal data vault to manage all your online credentials, such as usernames and passwords, in an encrypted database.

   Protect Your Identity

Guard your personal information like a valuable treasure! Form a habit of being mindful of the data requested by social media platforms (such as your current location) and carefully consider your responses. Revealing personal details (date of birth, address, social security number, school, or employer) online can heighten the risk of identity theft. 

Tip: When using mobile devices, apps may request constant access permissions. Be cautious and turn off unnecessary permissions like camera, microphone, location, and contact syncing unless essential for app functionality.

   Check Your Settings

Adjust the privacy and security settings on web browsers and mobile operating systems to protect online privacy. Whenever you create a new account, install a new app, or acquire a new device, review the settings to your preferred level of information sharing.

Tip: Regularly check your devices for updates, review permissions, and confirm that other security measures remain active.

   Multi-factor Authentication
Multi-factor authentication (MFA) adds an extra layer of security to your accounts by requiring a second form of verification, such as biometrics or unique, one-time codes. This includes proving your identity through facial recognition, fingerprint scanning, or responding to a text message after entering your username and password.

Tip: We highly recommend utilizing MFA because it makes it harder for hackers to access your online accounts, even if they know your password. 

    Watch For Phishing Scams
Phishing scams disguise themselves as enticing coupons, informative messages, or seemingly legitimate communications from your accounts, creating a gateway for hackers or malicious software to infiltrate your computer, phone, or tablet. While these deceptive schemes are commonly distributed via email, they can be sent through text messages and messaging apps. These fraudulent messages often appear authentic and prompt you to click a link.

Tip: To protect yourself, you can always access your accounts by visiting the official website and logging in securely or contacting the sender directly.

There are numerous strategies to safeguard your personal information, and Magnifi Financial is dedicated to protecting your financial data. Schedule an appointment with a Magnifi Financial representative to learn more about our digital banking solutions to add additional protection against fraud.

For more tips on how to protect yourself from fraud and what we do to keep your information safe, visit our Fraud Center.

Watch this video to learn more about social engineering.