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Cyber Security Tips

Tuesday, 30 June 2015

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As more companies and agencies have switched from using traditional methods of record keeping and doing business to using the Internet/cloud, cybersecurity has become a growing issue. Instead of having to obtain physical copies of information, perpetrators can now access personal information such as credit card and social security numbers or passwords by simply using the Internet. In order to avoid identity theft and data breaching, we have provided the following tips:

Be aware of your digital footprint: Knowing how many websites have your personal information stored can be vital to protecting yourself against fraud. Making a list or spreadsheet with these websites can be useful, as well as deleting accounts from sites that you no longer use can minimize the chance of fraud.
Create strong passwords: Having a strong password can make a difference. Make sure to change passwords for important accounts frequently, and to avoid using the same password for multiple accounts. Also, using common words/phrases or personal information can make it easier for perpetrators, so be sure that the password is unique. We also recommend avoiding AutoSaving usernames and passwords through the internet, and that to keep a copy of account information in a safe place.
Be cautious of what you post on social media: Many fraudsters can gain personal information which can be used to answer security questions through websites such as Facebook or Twitter.
Choose to use Two-Factor Authentication when possible: Two-Factor Authentication requires two different components from the user, such as entering a password as well as a verification code from an email or text message. Many websites now give the option to use this method of fraud prevention, and it can be useful in protecting access to personal information.
Update your computer’s firewall and protection programs: Most computers come with a basic firewall that protects fraudsters from gaining access to information, but without updates, the firewall can become faulty. By updating your computer regularly, you can help further prevent fraud.
Be wary of suspicious emails: Spam and phishing websites can be sent through email. Avoid opening or downloading attachments from emails that may be spam. Also, make sure to encrypt emails containing important or personal information by services such as SafeGmail or investing in encryption software (some programs provide free trials).
Use secure Wi-Fi connections: Make sure to use a personal or secure Wi-Fi connection when making a transaction or sending emails with personal information, as public Wi-Fi connections can allow others to access your information. Identity theft hotspots include Starbucks and other locations that offer free Wi-Fi. Also, secure personal Wi-Fi connections with renaming the SSID and password with a name that will not identify you.
Protect your smartphone and tablets: Setting passwords for smart phones and tablets can prevent perpetrators from accessing personal information. We advise against saving passwords or other important information in the phone in case of theft. If your phone or any other smart device is stolen, call your carrier to have the device locked and shut off.

Following these tips can make a difference in preventing fraud. If someone has gained access to your information, they may be able to answer the security questions TD Ameritrade or Schwab asks, so we highly advise our clients to call Asset Planning directly instead of contacting TD Ameritrade or Schwab when verifying transactions. We work hard on keeping close relationships with our clients, and we are more likely to identify fraud by being able to recognize differences in voice and mannerisms.

About the author

Erin Nelsen, CFP®

Call 714-827-5794 to make a free consulation with Erin

Erin Nelsen, CFP^®is a fee-only fiducary Financial Advisor that manages portfolios & conducts hourly financial planning for Asset Planning. Erin holds the CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER ™ & Registered Investment Advisor Representative professional designations. Erin has expertise in various financial planning areas such as investments, taxes, estate divisions, public and private pension options, Social Security, real estate, insurance analysis, recent widow planning, and many other complex financial issues that arise. Erin has been with Asset Planning since April 2007. Erin is thankful to have found her perfect forever firm. Asset Planning holds a high standard of care for both its clients and staff, and everyone is truly valued as family.

An Orange County native, Erin earned her Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration with a concentration in Finance from Cal State Fullerton. Erin completed the Personal Financial Program at CSUF. Erin is an active member of the Orange County Financial Planning Association and has been a volunteer teacher of personal finance to elementary kids through the community outreach program Junior Achievement.

Erin Nelsen is a Fee-Only Financial Advisor and a member of NAPFA, the largest Fee-Only Network Financial Planners. Fee-Only means Erin is only compensated directly by her clients & does not sell products nor accept commissions for the investments she recommends. Erin is proud to have built her career solely on the independent Fee-Only side of the Wealth Management industry. Erin is among an elite group of Financial Advisors held to the Fiduciary Standard. As a Fiduciary, she is required to put a client's interest above her own. Ethical, appropriate, & skilled professional care is our solid promise to all clients.

When Erin is not at the job she loves, she is busy tending to her garden, caring for her family, attending concerts, traveling, floating in her pool, or scouting out new restaurants to try with her husband/college sweetheart of 18 years. Erin's household is blessed with a son, daughter (both in college), two nephews (orphaned), a Sheltie dog, & two royal cats that rule her household.

Asset Planning, Inc Blog

Cyber Security Tips

About the author

Erin Nelsen, CFP®

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