Cyber Shield: Best Practices for Securing Your Personal Financial Data

In an era of innovative mobile software, convenient online banking, and endless cyber attacks your personal data is always at risk. Digital criminals continue to become more innovative in their methods to steal both individual and large archives of personal data to enact identity theft and financial fraud. The number of possible scams and hacking techniques only continues to grow.

Times are challenging for data security and financial safety. Now is a critical time to protect your personal data, and especially your financial information. The good news is that there are many security protocols and tools you can use to increase your personal data defense.

 

10 Ways to Protect Your Personal and Financial Data

1. Use Strong, Unique Passwords

Start by making your passwords longer, more complex, and more diverse. There are two methods for creating better passwords that are easy to remember.

Combination Words: eXtremely$afeP@ssw9rd

 

You can also use a password manager to keep all your passwords straight since it's best to use a unique password for every account and service.

2. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

2FA or two-factor authentication sends you a text message or email to confirm logins. This is especially safe because most hackers don't have your phone or personal email. It also ensures you are notified if someone else tries to log in.

3. Be Wary of Phishing Scams

Phishing is when a hacker pretends to be someone familiar or a trusted brand in order to steal your information or get you to click an infected link. Phishing can target you personally or might set a general trap for people who use common brands. Always check if a sender or source is legitimate and trusted.

4. Monitor Your Accounts Regularly

Keep an eye on your financial accounts, especially your transaction history. Get to know your vendors and your own spending habits so that unknown charges are immediately obvious. Alert your financial provider to protect your account immediately if you notice suspicious activity.

5. Secure Your Devices

Keep your personal devices safe. Use lock screens, passcodes, and biometrics to ensure that all the personal data in your phone cannot be easily accessed if your phone is stolen. The same is true for any device where you are automatically logged into your apps and accounts.

6. Use Secure Networks

Hacked wifi networks are a common way for hackers to access personal computers and phones. Secure your home network with a firewall and router settings. Then, only use secured public networks when out in the world.

7. Be Cautious With Personal Data

Don't share your personal information in plain text. Even things that seem normal, like your name, address, and phone number, can be used to impersonate you and take over your accounts. Especially do not share any information about your finances, including the banks and services you use.

8. Educate Yourself and Stay Informed

Stay updated on the latest hacking and phishing tactics being used against companies and individuals. The cyber-threat landscape is constantly shifting as hackers develop new techniques to get around the latest defenses.

9. Implement Account Recovery Options

Account recovery options such as a connected phone number or backup account both make it more difficult for hackers to steal your accounts and make it easier for you to restore lost or stolen accounts.

10. Be Mindful of Data Breaches

Lastly, take data breaches seriously. Many apps and services will alert you if your passwords or accounts have been compromised. Take the necessary steps to re-secure your accounts, change your passwords, and protect your data or finances when these events occur. Most people experience some degree of data breach in their lifetime, often dozens of times in an adult career. Be wary and ready to respond.

 

Protect Your Personal Data and Your Financial Future

A single instance of identity theft can jeopardize your financial stability and future. Implementing practical cyber defense strategies is essential to protect your data, accounts, and finances. For comprehensive insights and personalized guidance on securing your financial future, trust CrossleyShear Wealth Management. Contact us for a consultation to ensure your financial well-being is safeguarded.

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