October is National Cyber Security Awareness Month (NCSAM) which was created by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and National Cyber Security Alliance to ensure consumers have access to the resources they need to stay safe and secure online. In today’s online world, your devices, accounts, and sensitive data are constantly under threat. Better Business Bureau (BBB) empower consumers to take proactive steps toward safer online habits.
“Being connected at home, at work, and when we’re at play often leaves us exposed to online fraud nearly all of our waking hours,” Mechele Agbayani Mills, President and CEO of BBB Serving Central East Texas said. Whether you’re securing your home WiFi or safeguarding customer data, BBB’s Cybersecurity HQ is available to provide solid advice, tools, and next-step pathways when things go wrong.”
BBB offers the following tips to stay safe online:
Connect with caution. Be cautious when using public Wi-Fi – these networks are not secure. When entering financial or credit card information, be sure that the website is security enabled (https).
Click with caution. Beware of links in unsolicited emails, text messages and those found in ads on social media sites. Never download or install files from unverified sources. Research companies with BBB.org and other online sources before you buy.
Crypto with caution. Before making investment decisions of any kind, it is critical to understand some of the concepts of virtual currencies. Go to BBB.org/crypto to get the facts and go to bbb.org to review trustworthy cryptocurrency exchange and financial services platforms.
Protect your Passwords. Change passwords often, and keep them long and strong. Pass phrases are more complex and may be more secure. Enable multi-factor authentication when available.
Own your online presence. When applicable, set the privacy and security settings on your devices and on your accounts to control how you share information.
Report it. Victims are encouraged to file a complaint with the Internet Crime Complaint Center (ic3.gov.) and BBB Scam Tracker. Victims are also encouraged to report the incident to the Federal Trade Commission who can generate a tailored recovery plan and take action in restoring their identity.
AI and the Future of Online Safety
Artificial intelligence is rapidly changing how cyberattacks are launched and how we defend against them. Recognizing the growing impact of AI tools, BBB offers a dedicated Artificial Intelligence HQ resource to help users navigate emerging risks.
BBB will be promoting National Cybersecurity Awareness during the month of October and invites the East Texas community to learn more about how to keep personally identifiable information secure. Go to BBB Cybersecurity HQ for more cybersecurity tips and to learn more about how to project your business from social engineering attacks go to bbb.org.
BBB’s Cybersecurity HQ is more than a collection of articles; it’s a living resource designed to adapt with the digital landscape. Whether you’re a cautious consumer or a business leader, there’s something here to help you stay safer online.
Please report fraudulent activity or unscrupulous business practices to BBB Scam Tracker. Remember, great businesses are out there. Always look for the BBB seal; it’s the Sign of a Better BusinessSM . Start with companies you can trust by going to bbb.org.
About BBB: BBB is a nonprofit, business-supported organization that sets and upholds high standards for fair and honest business behavior. Most BBB services to consumers are free of charge. BBB provides objective advice, free BBB Business Profiles on more than 5.3 million companies, 11,000 charity reviews, dispute resolution services, alerts and educational information on topics affecting marketplace trust. Visit bbb.org for more information. BBB Serving Central East Texas was founded in 1985 and serves 19 counties.
