10 Cyber Security Tips To Keep You Safe Online

At CapFed®, we want to do our part to promote cyber security by sharing our top 10 tips to help you stay safe online. Don’t be the next target of an online attacker. Follow these 10 tips to keep your information safe:

• Keep your software and web browser up-to-date
  • It may seem like a hassle to always install the latest anti-virus or web browser updates, but attackers become aware of problems and vulnerabilities within a system. The new updates take measures to block the latest hacking and virus tricks.

• Check your software settings
  • Most software defaults to allow all available functionality, but you can control this in settings. Try to use the highest security setting available for the functionality you wish, especially for software connecting to the browser.

• Keep your information encrypted
  • Personal information should only be given to encrypted sites. You will know if a site is encrypted because it will begin with “https:” and NOT “http:” or any other variation.  There should be a closed padlock icon on the address bar or at the bottom of the window to ensure the user the site is encrypting information.

• Lock your computer when you are away from it
  • Remember to lock your computer every time you get up or stop using it, especially at work or in a public place. Attackers can sit at your computer and access all your information in less than 10 minutes.

• Dispose of sensitive information properly
  • Only deleting a file does not completely stop the existence of the file. Sensitive information needs to be completely erased and permanently deleted from your computer. There are different steps for doing this, whether you use a Windows or a Mac computer.

• Disconnect your computer from the Internet when you are not using it
  • Many users never disconnect their computers from the Internet, but by doing this, you prevent attackers from accessing your information through online means. Also, be sure to always protect your home wireless network with a password.

• Be cautious of emails requesting personal information
  • Legitimate businesses will not attempt to gain your personal information over email.  Be cautious when clicking on links in emails; you need to know where the link is going to send you. If you ever have a question about a Capitol Federal® site or email, you may always call to verify it at 1-888-8CAPFED.

• Take advantage of security features
  • Passwords can add layers of protection against attackers. Create a strong password.  The strongest passwords are not true words and use eight characters with a mix of symbols, numbers, and capital and lowercase letters. Some programs offer added security beyond passwords. Take advantage of everything your software offers.

• Only make secure transactions from reputable vendors
  • Only do business with legitimate organizations. If you are unfamiliar with the business, look for the site certificate and pay attention to the “issued to” portion.  Keep any phone numbers and physical address information on the certificate, in case there is a problem with the bill.

• Use a credit card for online transactions and check your statements
  • Credit cards are a better option than debit cards for online purchases for three reasons: Credit cards have spending limits, credit cards will not draw the money directly from your bank account, and laws limit your liability for fraudulent charges.

Take the time to protect your information. If you suspect you have been a victim of fraud, please report any suspicious bank account activity to us immediately by calling 1-888-8CAPFED or visiting us in a branch.