The Stephenson National Bank and Trust (SNBT) and the Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA) are reminding customers of practical steps to help protect their financial data and quickly recover in the event of a data incident.
Almost three quarters (74%) of cybersecurity incidents can be attributed to human error. More than half (56%) of Americans wouldn’t know the proper steps to take after an incident.
“Cyber criminals are always on the lookout for weaknesses, so it’s crucial for all of us to strengthen our defenses and stay alert to protect against these persistent threats,” said Elisa Rollo, SNBT senior vice president and chief retail officer. “We make it a priority to educate our employees on handling sensitive data, and we want to equip our customers with the tools they need to defend against new threats by fostering a culture of cyber and data readiness.”
SNBT uses sophisticated technology and monitoring techniques, strong firewalls and other methods to secure customer data. Additionally, banks practice stringent privacy policies and train employees to treat confidential information with the utmost of care, meeting or exceeding federal and state mandates.
Consumers can also take proactive steps to thwart cyberattacks. While there is no foolproof way to avoid online identity theft, a person can minimize their risk by:
• Limiting disclosed information. Don’t respond to unsolicited requests for personal information, such as banking access ID, account number, username or password, even if they appear to originate from a bank, government agencies or other legitimate companies.
• Creating strong and unique passwords. Use complex, unique passwords for each of online account to avoid a domino effect if one password is compromised. Be sure to change them regularly.
• Monitoring accounts for unusual activity. Frequently review bank and credit card statements for unauthorized transactions. A person should notify their bank immediately if there is anything suspicious.
• Enabling security features. Use the strongest authentication options offered in addition to a password such as a code sent to a mobile device.
• Guarding against phishing attempts. Be cautious of emails, texts or phone calls asking for personal information. Phishing scams often mimic legitimate companies, so double-check the sender’s details, avoid clicking on unknown links and report suspicious messages.
• Maintaining up-to-date software. Regularly update device operating systems, apps and antivirus software to protect against security vulnerabilities. Automatic updates help enable this protection without manual intervention.
For information, visit www.staysafeonline.org.
“Cyber threats are constantly evolving, so consumers should take an active role in safeguarding their financial data,” said ICBA President and CEO Rebeca Romero Rainey. “Community banks not only prioritize customer protection through rigorous security measures but also empower individuals with the knowledge to defend themselves in an increasingly digital world. Small changes in our online habits can make a world of difference and significantly reduce the risks of cyberattacks.”
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