October 28, 2020
Many aspects of our normal lives have moved online, making the need for cybersecurity more important that ever. This month during National Cybersecurity Awareness Month (NCSAM), the Utah Attorney General’s Office is urging you to “Do Your Part, #BeCyberSmart”.
The Attorney General’s Office works year-round to protect Utahns online; however, it’s imperative that you do your best to be cyber secure to protect you and your family.
- Keep your software updated. Keeping your security and software up to date will add an extra layer of protection for your information as they patch security vulnerabilities and help keep hackers out.
- Don’t click on links or open attachments. Unless you’re expecting to receive a file or document, don’t open it. Don’t click on any links unless you can verify the sender. Scammers can imitate legitimate sites and email addresses, so look for a variation in spelling. Still aren’t sure? You can go to the company’s website to log on to your account or call the number listed on the official site to ask them about the information in the message.
- Be careful what you download. Even if the PDF looks right, cybercriminals can trick you into downloading malware to try and steal your information. This malware could even be disguised as an app. Don’t download or click on links that may looks suspicious or come from a site you don’t know and trust.
- Be cautious of messages that urge immediate action. Some scam messages contain a stated time limit for you to respond or take action, such as 24-hours. Scammers want you to feel confused and rushed. Remember, slow down and take your time. Don’t feel like you have to respond immediately, especially since in most cases no response is the safest and best response. If you think you really do have to respond, instead contact the company through a number or email you can verify on their official website and ask if you need to take any action.
- Don’t follow instructions on unsolicited messages to update, check, or verify your account information. Some scammers send messages saying you need to verify or update your account information and/or payment information. Don’t follow these instructions, click any links or call any numbers provided in the message. Instead, contact the company through a phone number or email you can verify to see if you need to take any action.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, scammers have tried to take advantage of the fears and worries surrounding the Coronavirus. Check out the Utah Fraud Squad’s website for more information about current Coronavirus-related scams.
As part of National Cybersecurity Awareness Month, the Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency released some resources to help reduce cybersecurity risks and help you protect yourself online. Check them out here.
During each week of National Cybersecurity Awareness Month, the FBI is highlighting priority cybersecurity issues. Check out these issues and more cybersecurity tips and resources here.