Stay Safe Online: Cybersecurity Tips for UTFCU Members

October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month, and there's no better time to review how to protect your personal and financial information online. At UT Federal Credit Union, we want to help you recognize potential threats, strengthen your online defenses, and stay secure in the digital world.

Passwords and Authentication Basics

Passwords and authentication help protect your accounts from unauthorized access. Learn how to create strong passwords and use extra security layers like multifactor authentication.

Tips for making passwords hard to guess but easy to remember.

• Use at least 12 characters with a mix of uppercase/lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols.
• Avoid obvious information like birthdays, pets' names, or common words.
• Consider passpharases, like "MorningCoffee$42Sun", which are both strong and easy to remember.

Using the same password across accounts increases your risk if one account is hacked.

• Reusing passwords across multiple accounts is risky. If one account is hacked, all others using the same password are vulnerable.
• Treat each account like a unique lock with its own key.

Secure tools that store and generate complex passwords for all your accounts.

• Tools like LastPass, 1Password, Dashlane, or Bitwarden securely store passwords and generate complex ones.
• Using a password manager reduces the risk of reuse and simplifies your login experience.

An extra step beyond your password that makes it harder for hackers to access your accounts.

• MFA adds a second verification step, such as a code sent to your phone or an authentication app, in addition to your password.
• Even if your password is stolen, MFA makes it much harder for hackers to access your accounts.

Cyber Threats to Watch For

Cyber threats are tactics scammers use to steal your information. Recognizing them helps you stay safe online.

Fraudulent emails or messages pretending to be from a trusted source to steal login information.

• Phishing emails impersonate trusted organizations like banks or retailers, often urging you to click on links or provide personal info.
• Example: An email claiming your UTFCU account is locked, asking you to "verify your details."

Scam texts designed to trick you into revealing personal or financial information.

• Phishing via text messages often claims a problem with your bank or a delivery.
• Example: "Your account was charged $500. Click here to dispute." Legitimate organizations never request sensitive info by text.

Scammers call, pretending to be trusted organizations, to get sensitive data.

• Scammers call pretending to be from your bank, IRS, or tech support.
• They may pressure you into providing account numbers, PINs, or one-time codes.
• Always verify independently before sharing any info.

Manipulation techniques used to make you share confidential information.

• Manipulation to trick you into revealing personal information.
• Can happen online, over the phone or in person.
• Example: A "co-worker" asking for a password or access to files. Always confirm identities before responding.

Common Scams

Scammers use specific schemes to trick people into giving money or personal info. Knowing the common types can help you avoid them.

Scammers ask for gift card payments, which are nearly impossible to trace.

• Scammers ask for payment via gift cards, claiming it's for a prize, bill, or urgent details.
• Once the code is shared, the money is gone. Legitimate companies never request gift cards.

Fake online relationships are used to gain trust and request money.

• Scammers create fake relationships online to gain trust and eventually request money.
• Be cautious if someone you've never met in person asks for money or personal details.

Fraudsters claim your computer is infected and ask for payment or remote access.

• Pop-ups or phone calls claim your device is infected and request payment for "repairs."
• Legitimate tech companies never initiate unsolicited contact this way.

Red Flags to Recognize

Certain warning signs often indicate fraud or attempted scams. Watch for unusual requests or unexpected alerts.

• Requests for account details or one-time passwords (OTP)
• Unexpected account alerts or transactions
• Unfamiliar credit inquiries on your reports
• Mail addressed to someone else or unexpected financial documents
• Emails or calls with urgent pressure to act quickly

Best Practices for Staying Safe

Following simple, proactive habits keeps your online accounts and personal information secure.

• Keep devices updated: Software updates often include security patches.
• Review account activity regularly: Check bank statements, credit card accounts, and online profiles for unusual activity.
• Never share passwords or PINs: Even friends or family should not have these.
• Be cautious on public Wi-Fi: Avoid logging into sensitive accounts. Use a VPN when necessary.
• Secure personal devices: Use screen locks, biometric authentication, and antivirus software.

FAQs: Cybersecurity Tips for Members

Quick answers to common cybersecurity questions, helping you stay informed and protected.

Final Thoughts

Cybersecurity is everyone’s responsibility. By using strong passwords, enabling MFA, recognizing threats, and practicing safe online habits, you can protect yourself and your finances from cybercrime. At UT Federal Credit Union, we’re committed to helping our members stay safe online and offline.