Cybersecurity Starts With You: Simple Ways to Stay Safe Online

October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month, making it a great time to take a closer look at how you protect your personal and financial information online.

From checking your bank account and shopping online to scrolling through social media and checking emails, we spend a lot of time connected. While technology makes everyday tasks more convenient, it also creates opportunities for scammers and cybercriminals.

The good news is that protecting yourself doesn't have to be complicated. A few simple habits can go a long way toward keeping your accounts, devices, and personal information more secure.

Stop and Verify When Something Doesn't Feel Right

One of the most useful cybersecurity habits is also one of the simplest: slow down.

Scammers often rely on urgency, fear, or excitement to convince you to act quickly. You may be told that your account has been compromised, a payment needs immediate attention, or you'll lose access to something if you don't respond.

If you receive an unexpected call, email, or text claiming to be from Liberty National Bank and something doesn't seem right, stop the conversation and contact us directly using a trusted number. Scammers can even manipulate caller ID to make a phone call appear legitimate, so the name or number displayed on your screen isn't always enough to verify who's contacting you.

Use Strong, Unique Passwords

Your passwords are one of the first lines of defense between your personal information and someone trying to access it. Avoid using easy-to-guess information such as your name, birthday, pet names, or simple combinations like "123456." Longer passwords or passphrases that combine multiple unrelated words can be easier for you to remember while being harder for someone else to guess.

Just as important, avoid using the same password for multiple accounts. If one account is compromised, a reused password could give a criminal an opportunity to access your other accounts as well. A reputable password manager can also help you create and securely keep track of unique passwords.

Turn On Multi-Factor Authentication

Multi-factor authentication (MFA), or sometimes called two-factor authentication (2FA), adds another layer of protection when signing in to an account. Whenever it's available, consider turning it on, especially for important accounts such as your email and financial accounts.

Instead of relying only on a username and password, MFA requires an additional method of verification. Depending on the account, that could include a security code, authentication app, fingerprint, or facial recognition.
And remember: never give an unexpected caller or sender a one-time login or verification code. Liberty National Bank will never ask for a one-time login code.

Think Before You Click

Phishing attempts can arrive through emails, text messages, social media, and other forms of communication. Be cautious of unexpected links, attachments, QR codes, or messages asking you to provide personal or financial information. Even if a message appears to come from a company or person you recognize, take a moment to verify it before clicking.

When it comes to your bank account, it's safer to access Online Banking by typing the bank's website directly into your browser (WeAreLiberty.Bank) or by using the official mobile app rather than following an unexpected link.

LNB's existing scam guidance emphasizes the same principle: slow down, look for red flags, and contact the bank directly when you're unsure about a message or request.

Keep an Eye on Your Accounts

Reviewing your transactions regularly can help you spot activity you don't recognize sooner. Take advantage of available account and card alerts so you're notified of activity that may need your attention. Through the myLiberty App and My Cards, LNB customers can access tools designed to provide more visibility and control over their cards, including real-time alerts and card controls.

If you notice a transaction you don't recognize or believe your account information may have been compromised, contact Liberty National Bank as soon as possible.

Be Careful When Using Public Wi-Fi

Free Wi-Fi can be convenient when you're traveling, shopping, or grabbing a cup of coffee, but public networks may not offer the same level of security as your home or trusted network.

Be cautious about accessing sensitive accounts or entering personal and financial information while connected to public Wi-Fi. Also make sure you're connecting to the correct network. A network name that looks legitimate doesn't necessarily mean it is.

When possible, wait until you're connected to a trusted, secure network before accessing sensitive information.

Cybersecurity Is An Everyday Habit

Cybersecurity Awareness Month is a good reminder to check your online habits, but protecting your information is important all year long.

Using strong and unique passwords, taking advantage of additional security features, keeping your devices updated, monitoring your accounts, and thinking before you click can all help reduce your risk.

Most importantly, trust your instincts. If something seems unusual, take the time to verify it before sharing information, sending money, or taking action.

At Liberty National Bank, we're here to help you protect your financial information. If you receive a suspicious call, text, or email claiming to be from LNB or believe your account may have been compromised, contact us directly at 855-351-2265.

Stay alert. Stay informed. Stay secure.