This October is Cyber Security Awareness Month! At Jason Shear Law, we're spreading the word with these six tips to help keep your confidential information and identity out of the hands of scammers.

  1. Optimize your Usernames and Passwords:
    • Create unique usernames and passwords that are difficult to guess.
    • Don’t repeat the same password across multiple websites.
    • Change your password at least every three months or as soon as you suspect your account has been compromised.
    • Don't allow your web browser to store login credentials for your banking website.
    • Deselect the "remember my password" option.
  2. Stay Alert when Banking Online:
    • Don’t log into your online banking account on a public or unsecured Internet connection (i.e. airports, cafes, shopping centers, etc.).
    • Avoid downloading or storing sensitive information when using a shared device.
    • Review your account activity on a regular basis. Immediately report any suspicious transactions to your bank.
  3. Guard Online Banking Devices:
    • Activate your computer or network firewall and install anti-virus software.
    • Complete software updates–from operating system to applications, even web browsers–as recommended by the manufacturer.
    • Utilize a device PIN, password or other security features to restrict unauthorized device access.
    • Enable the auto-lock feature to secure devices during periods of inactivity.
  4. Visit Secure Websites:
    • Inspect the search bar in your browser. Look for a small padlock icon and verify that the web address begins with https:// rather than simply http://. The "s" stands for secure. This encrypts your sensitive information as it travels across the Internet.
  5. Manage Your Bluetooth Access:
    • Disable Bluetooth when not in use. Devices can be accessed through Bluetooth and loss of personal information may occur.
    • Set Bluetooth enabled devices to “non-discoverable” mode when in use.
  6. Delete Unsolicited Emails:
    • Ignore requests to click on links or download attachments in unsolicited emails, doing so may install dangerous viruses or malware on your device.
    • Verify the source of an unsolicited email, even if it's from a familiar person or organization.