As we move gently into fall and October approaches, Cybersecurity Awareness Month serves as a timely reminder that our digital lives—especially when it comes to finances and credit—deserve just as much attention as our physical safety. With more transactions, applications, and personal information moving online, scammers and hackers are always finding new ways to take advantage. The good news? Staying safe doesn’t have to be complicated. A few simple steps can go a long way in protecting your financial well-being.

Strengthen Your Passwords
One of the easiest yet most effective ways to secure your accounts is to use strong, unique passwords. Avoid reusing the same password across multiple accounts—if one gets compromised, others could quickly follow. Instead, create long, complex passwords that combine letters, numbers, and symbols. Consider using a reputable password manager to keep track of them, so you don’t have to remember every detail.

Embrace Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
Many banks, credit card companies, and online services now offer multi-factor authentication, which requires a second form of verification (like a text message code or authentication app) in addition to your password. MFA makes it far harder for cybercriminals to break into your accounts, even if they somehow get hold of your password.

Stay Alert for Phishing Attempts
Phishing emails and texts are getting more convincing. Scammers often pretend to be banks, credit card companies, or even government agencies, urging you to click a link or share personal information. Before responding, pause. Double-check the sender’s address, hover over links to see where they lead, and when in doubt, contact the company directly through a trusted phone number or website.

Keep Your Devices Updated
Regular software updates aren’t just about new features—they often patch security vulnerabilities. Hackers look for outdated systems to exploit, so keeping your phone, computer, and apps up to date is a simple but powerful line of defense.

Monitor Your Accounts and Credit
Staying on top of your finances is a key part of staying safe online. Check your bank and credit card statements regularly for unfamiliar charges. It’s also wise to monitor your credit reports; by law, you’re entitled to one free report per year from each of the three major credit bureaus at AnnualCreditReport.com. Some financial institutions even provide free credit score monitoring, which can help you quickly spot suspicious activity.

Use Secure Networks
Public Wi-Fi is convenient, but it’s not always safe. Avoid logging into financial accounts when you’re connected to an unsecured network at a coffee shop, airport, or hotel. If you must use public Wi-Fi, consider a virtual private network (VPN) to add a layer of encryption to your browsing.

Be Smart About Social Media
Sharing personal details like your birthday, address, or even your pet’s name may seem harmless—but scammers can use that information to guess your passwords or security questions. Review your privacy settings and think twice before posting sensitive information online.

Watch Out for the Latest Trends in Scams
Cybercriminals are always adapting. Recently, there’s been a rise in “smishing” (phishing by text) and fake investment opportunities promoted through social media. Another growing trend is “account takeover,” where scammers gain access to your email or financial accounts and then lock you out. Staying informed about these evolving tactics helps you recognize suspicious behavior before it’s too late.

A Few Extra Steps for Peace of Mind

• Enable alerts with your bank and credit card company to be notified of unusual activity.
• Back up important files to a secure cloud or external drive in case of ransomware attacks.
• Teach family members—especially children and older adults—about safe online habits.

Cybersecurity may sound technical, but the truth is, protecting yourself online often comes down to a series of small, consistent habits. As Cybersecurity Awareness Month approaches next month, take the opportunity to review your digital practices. By strengthening your passwords, staying alert to scams, and keeping an eye on your finances, you can outsmart cybercriminals and keep your money and credit safe.