Caring for your financial well-being means more than offering great products and services, it also means helping you protect your money and personal information. That’s why we’re joining organizations across the country in recognizing Cybersecurity Awareness Month this October.

Cybersecurity Awareness Month began in 2004 as a nationwide effort to help people stay safer online. Today, it’s a reminder that protecting your digital life is just as important as protecting your wallet. And the best part? A few simple steps can make a big difference.

Why It Matters for You

Cybercrime is on the rise, and scams are getting more sophisticated. From phishing emails and texts that look like they came from your banking institution to messages with fake shipping updates, cybercriminals are constantly finding new ways to trick people. Protecting yourself online not only helps safeguard your personal information. It also helps prevent fraud, identity theft, and financial loss.

Simple Steps to Strengthen Your Security

You don’t need to be a tech whiz to keep your accounts safe. Start with these easy tips:

1. Use Strong, Unique Passwords

   • Don’t reuse the same password across accounts.

   • Try a passphrase that’s long but memorable, like “HaleakalaSunrise2025!”

   • A password manager can help you keep them organized.

2. Turn On Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

   • MFA is like adding a lock to your lock. It requires a second step (like a code texted to your phone) to log in.

   • Always enable it for your financial, email, and social media accounts.

3. Pause Before You Click

   • Be cautious of links and attachments in emails or texts, even if they look official.

   • If something feels off, call the sender directly using a trusted phone number.

4. Keep Devices Up to Date

   • Software updates aren’t just about new features - they fix security holes.

   • Turn on automatic updates when possible.

5. Back Up Important Files

   • Use cloud storage or an external drive to save copies of documents and photos.

   • This protects your memories and data if your device is hacked or lost.

6. Be Careful on Public Wi-Fi

   • Avoid checking your credit union account on public Wi-Fi.

   • If you must, use a Virtual Private Network (VPN).

Cybersecurity Awareness Month is about reminding us that small actions make a big difference. By taking just a few extra precautions, you can better protect your personal information, your finances, and your peace of mind.

Stay safe, stay smart, and remember when it comes to online security, we’re all in this together.