Stay safe everywhere: best of 2016 security tips
Feeling safe is a basic need every human has. Whether it is your data or your home, you want to feel secure.
However eight in 10 Americans are worried about their security. Homes are burglarized every 13 seconds and 3 million data records are stolen every day. In one study, consumers admitted they’re more worried about online privacy than they are about losing their income.
At OCCU, your security and privacy are our top priorities. As your financial partner, we’re committed to keeping your money, identity and financial information safe. Since security touches every aspect of your life, from your front door to your computer login screen, we work to keep you safe everywhere you go.
Let’s make 2017 a year for upping your protection. Here are some of our best security articles to help you guard yourself:
1. On and offline
You leave a mark everywhere you go, from your physical paper trail to your digital footprint. Identity thieves can even follow you into the cloud these days. We’ve compiled some important best practices for covering your tracks both on and offline. Find out the best way to dispose of documents, protect your passwords and more.
Read more: Safety first: best practices
2. On Facebook
If you haven’t heard about the Facebook phishing scam that spread across the globe this year, now’s your chance. Learn how to spot the clever scam that was initially able to dupe a new victim every 20 seconds. While you’re at it, you can pick up some tips on how to evade phishers anywhere on the internet
Read more: Phishing with friends
3. At the ATM
Some thieves steal personal information by installing a hidden electronic device onto an ATM. The practice, known as skimming, skyrocketed more than five-fold in 2015. You can avoid becoming a target if you know what to look for—and follow these simple guidelines for protecting your PIN at the ATM.
Read more: 4 security tips for using ATMs
4. At home
Does your property’s design make you a target for burglary? Studies have found that a neighborhood’s physical layout can affect crime levels; for example, would-be burglars prefer poor lighting and plenty of places to hide. How you arrange and maintain your home sends a clear message to criminals. Make sure it’s the right one.
Read more: Secure by design
5. At the mailbox
Each year, more than one in 10 Americans move to a new home. In the flurry of unpacking, setting up utilities and learning the new neighborhood, it’s easy to forget to update your contact information. Find out why USPS change of address forms put you at major risk for fraud, and learn how to prevent it.
Read more: Stay in touch – update your information
With all of this security information at your fingertips, you can take control of your safety both on and offline—and put some of your fears to rest for the coming year.
