Summer Cyber Safety Tips

Summer is here, and as you prepare to pack your cell phones, tablets, and other connected devices along with sunscreen and books, it's important to stay mindful of cyber threats. Cybercriminals take advantage of public Wi-Fi networks to steal personal information and even create fake charging stations to infect your electronics with malware. They are also just as excited for your vacation, scouring social media to discover who's traveling and whose homes may be empty.

Here are some tips to help keep you safe while traveling:

1. Notify Us of Your Travel Plans: You can set up Travel Notifications up to one year in advance by calling us at 800.948.6677. Inform us of your travel dates and the countries you will be visiting. This helps us recognize legitimate transactions during your travels, preventing your account from being flagged for suspicious activity.
2. Keep Your Devices Updated: Ensure your devices have the latest software updates. These updates not only bring new features but also fix security vulnerabilities, keeping you protected. Don’t forget to update third-party applications as well.
3. Lock Down Your Login: Usernames and passwords alone aren't enough to protect your key accounts, such as email, banking, and social media. Strengthen your online security by enabling multifactor authentication (MFA) wherever possible. MFA typically pairs your username and password with a code sent to your phone, adding an extra layer of security. As a general rule, do not share this codes with anyone.
4. Use Strong Passwords/Passcodes: Secure your mobile devices with a passcode or security feature such as a fingerprint or face recognition. This helps protect your personal information in case your device is lost or stolen.
5. Update Passwords Often: It is generally recommended to change your password every 90 days. To update your password in Partners online banking, simply edit by finding Settings > Profile Settings > Username & Password. 
6. Be Cautious with Public Wi-Fi: Avoid transmitting personal information or making purchases on unsecured public networks. Instead, use your phone as a personal Wi-Fi hotspot (if your carrier's plan allows) to ensure a more secure internet connection.
7. Avoid Public Charging Stations: Avoid using public charging stations. Instead, plug your own charger into a wall socket or carry a spare battery to recharge your devices. Cyber criminals can modify public USB ports to install malware or steal your data.
8. Share with Care: Think twice before posting pictures that indicate you're out of town. This information can be valuable to criminals targeting your home. Consider limiting your social media apps' access to location services and avoid including location details in your posts and pictures.

For more information and additional cyber safety tips, we encourage you to visit our Partners Fraud Center. Here you will find tips and tricks to enhance your online security, ways to safely access your account information, and more!