Cybersecurity: Make Yourself a Difficult Target
Make Yourself a Difficult Target: Cybersecurity
As cybercriminals continue to evolve, protecting your personal and financial data is more critical than ever. In 2024, the sophistication of cyberattacks has increased, with criminals targeting individuals’ wealth and personal information through advanced techniques such as phishing, malware, and identity theft. At Cornerstone Wealth, we understand the importance of keeping our clients safe from these threats and are committed to providing actionable steps to safeguard your digital and financial life.
Why Cybersecurity Matters More Than Ever
With more personal and financial transactions occurring online, it’s essential to ensure your digital footprint is secure. Cybercriminals often target high-net-worth individuals, exploiting weak points in their online security to access financial accounts, personal information, and even private communications. By taking a proactive approach to cybersecurity, you can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to these attacks.
Top Cybersecurity Threats
Cybercriminals use various methods to steal your personal information, including:
Phishing: Fraudulent emails designed to trick you into providing sensitive information.
Social Engineering: Manipulating individuals into divulging confidential information.
Malware: Software designed to infiltrate and damage your devices.
Identity Theft: Using stolen personal information to impersonate you and gain financial access.
Fidelity Cybersecurity Team insights - Make Yourself a Difficult Target for Cybercriminals
Five Steps to Strengthen Your Cybersecurity
To safeguard your wealth and personal information, it’s essential to implement robust security measures. Consider these five strategies:
Use Strong, Unique Passwords
Weak or reused passwords are a common entry point for cybercriminals. Consider using a password manager to create and store unique, strong passwords for each account. Avoid saving passwords in your web browser as they can be compromised by malware.Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
MFA adds an extra layer of security by requiring more than just a password to access your accounts. Always enable MFA on your financial, email, and mobile accounts to reduce the likelihood of unauthorized access.Regularly Monitor Financial and Email Accounts
Stay vigilant by checking for any unusual activity on your accounts. Activate security alerts to receive notifications about any suspicious login attempts or transactions.Secure Your Mobile Devices
Install anti-virus software on your mobile devices and activate automatic updates to ensure they are always protected. Additionally, use passcodes and enable the “find my phone” feature to lock or wipe data remotely if the device is lost or stolen.Freeze Your Credit
Consider freezing your credit to prevent identity thieves from opening new accounts in your name. This simple step can protect you from significant financial losses in the event of a data breach or identity theft.
Tips on preventing identity theft - Guide on Identity Protection
Be Vigilant Against Scams
Cybercriminals often use impersonation techniques to trick individuals into disclosing personal information. Whether it’s a fake phone call from a trusted institution or an urgent email requiring immediate action, be wary of any communication that seems suspicious. If you believe you’ve been targeted, act quickly by changing your passwords and contacting your financial institutions.
Looking Ahead: Enhancing Your Cybersecurity
At Cornerstone Wealth, we are committed to ensuring that our clients stay one step ahead of cybercriminals. We encourage you to reach out to our team for additional information. Simple steps like using a password manager, enabling MFA, and freezing your credit can go a long way in protecting your wealth and ensuring peace of mind.
Fidelity Cybersecurity Team insights - Personal Security Insights
Additional Resources from Fidelity
Imposter Scam - https://www.fidelity.com/viewpoints/personal-finance/preventing-identity-theft
Actions for a Data Breach - https://www.fidelity.com/learning-center/personal-finance/protect-accounts-from-hackers-data-breaches
Fidelity Account Security - https://www.fidelity.com/security/overview
Fidelity Customer Protection - https://www.fidelity.com/security/customer-protection-guarantee
This is for informational purposes only and information is subject to change. Links within this blog are not associated to Cornerstone Wealth and are also subject to change. Investment advisory services offered through Cornerstone Wealth Group, LLC dba Cornerstone Wealth, an SEC registered investment adviser.