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Think about how often you use technology throughout the day. From checking your email and paying bills to ordering groceries online, it's become a regular part of your routine. With so much of our personal lives connected online, keeping sensitive information secure is more important than ever.

Cybercriminals may try to take advantage of these everyday interactions by convincing someone to click a link in an email or text, share personal information or provide payment details. And as technology becomes more advanced, these attempts can be increasingly difficult to recognize.

That’s why one of the best cybersecurity habits is also one of the simplest: slow down.

In this blog, we’ll cover:

• How to spot something suspicious
• Why verification matters
• Everyday habits that can help protect sensitive information
• What to do if your information may have been compromised

Slow down before you click.

Phishing isn't always an obviously fake email anymore. Messages can look professional, appear to come from someone you know or relate to something you've recently done online.

Cybercriminals may even use information about you to make their messages more convincing. That's why it's important to pay attention, even when something looks familiar.

Before clicking or responding, take a moment to look for signs that something may not be right, including:

• A sense of urgency to act quickly
• Unusual requests
• Unexpected links or attachments
• Requests for passwords or verification codes
• Requests to change payment information
• Anything that seems out of character for the person or organization supposedly contacting you

When something feels off, verify it another way.

If a request seems legitimate but something about it feels unusual, stop and take a moment to verify it through a method you already trust before taking any action.

For example, if a suspicious message appears to come from a coworker, friend or familiar organization, contact them separately using a phone number or communication channel you already know is legitimate.

Unexpected requests can also occur with multifactor authentication (MFA). MFA requires you to verify your identity in more than one way before signing into an account, such as entering your password followed by a code sent to your phone.

While MFA adds an extra layer of protection, it's still important to pay attention to any verification requests you receive. If you receive an MFA request you didn't initiate, don't approve it or share the verification code with anyone. An unexpected request could mean someone is trying to access your account without your permission.

When in doubt, verify before you trust.

Protect your information every day.

Cybersecurity goes beyond recognizing suspicious emails or messages. Small decisions about how you use your devices, manage online accounts and share personal information can also play a role in keeping your information secure.

• Protect your passwords. Use strong, unique passwords for each of your accounts and avoid reusing them. Keep passwords stored securely rather than writing them down on sticky notes or leaving them in places where others could access them.
• Think before you share. Double-check recipients and attachments before sending emails or messages, and be mindful of what personal information you share online or with others.
• Be careful when using public Wi-Fi. Confirm you're connecting to the correct network and be cautious of unexpected login pages, security warnings or requests to install software. A trusted personal hotspot may be a safer option.
• Be cautious with unfamiliar devices. Avoid connecting unknown USB drives or other external devices to your computer or other electronics, as they could contain malicious software or create security risks.

Taking a few extra moments to consider how you're accessing, using and sharing information can help you build safer cybersecurity habits.

Think your information has been compromised? Here’s what to do.

Even when you're careful, cybersecurity incidents can happen. If you notice unusual account activity, receive unexpected login notifications or suspect your personal information has been compromised, don't ignore the warning signs.

Take steps to secure affected accounts, change passwords when necessary and report your concerns  to the relevant service provider, financial institution or your employer's security team, depending on the situation.

Even if you're unsure whether anything happened, don't wait to take action. Acting quickly can help protect affected accounts or devices and limit any potential harm.

How can insurance help?

Taking steps to protect your personal information is important, but it's also worth understanding what insurance options may be available if something does happen. Home Cyber Protection is an optional coverage that may help with certain expenses following a cybersecurity incident.

Depending on the situation and coverage terms, it may help pay for professional services to replace lost or corrupted electronic data, restore device functionality or respond to a personal data breach. It may also help with certain financial losses related to fraud, including identity theft, and provide resources for situations involving cyber extortion.

Contact your local independent insurance agent to learn more about Home Cyber Protection and whether it may be right for you.

 

Cybersecurity doesn't require you to get everything right every time. What matters is slowing down when you can and acting quickly when something goes wrong. By recognizing potential warning signs, verifying unusual requests and being mindful of how you share information, you can help protect your personal information and reduce your risk of a cybersecurity incident.

 

Disclaimer: This article is not expert advice. The analysis of coverage is in general terms and is superseded in all respects by the Insuring Agreements, Endorsements, Exclusions, Terms and Conditions of the Policy. Some of the coverage mentioned in this material may not be applicable in all states or may have to be modified to conform to applicable state law. Some coverages may have been eliminated or modified since the publishing of this material. Discounts may not be available in all states. Limitations and conditions may apply. Premiums will be based on benefits chosen. Please check with your local Independent Auto-Owners Insurance Agent for details.

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