Up Your Personal CyberSecurity Game: Part 2 – Practical Tips

Earlier this year, I wrote an article on essential strategies to “Up Your Personal Cyber Security Game: Safeguarding Your Finances in the Digital Age” to safeguard your finances in our increasingly digital world. As cyber threats continue evolving, it’s a good time to revisit these concepts and incorporate additional tools to further fortify your online security.

Since then, I've continued to receive questions on cybersecurity best practices, particularly regarding identity theft monitoring and proactive steps for protection. In this update, I'll cover a few critical tools and practices to secure your digital footprint further.

Identity Theft Monitoring

With data breaches becoming common, identity theft monitoring is no longer optional. Many credit monitoring services, like ID Notify, may be available at no cost through affiliations, such as with TurboTax or other services. These monitoring tools provide alerts when suspicious activities are detected. Platforms like HaveIBeenPwned.com allow you to check if your email accounts have been exposed to a data breach, offering a free, easy way to stay vigilant.

Some companies now offer identity protection services as part of their benefits package. Check with your HR department for any available options; you may find resources you didn't know were accessible. Even if nothing is immediately available, it’s worth advocating for the inclusion of such services, as identity theft protection has become a fundamental aspect of employee wellness. Many companies recognize the growing need for cybersecurity tools to protect both employees and the business itself, and adding these resources can be a valuable way to increase employee satisfaction and security.

Enhanced personal Practices: Practical Steps to CyberSecurity

Beyond monitoring, implementing robust personal security practices is vital. Here are some critical steps I recommend, each of which plays a significant role in enhancing your cybersecurity:

• Use a Password Manager: A solid password manager, like 1Password, is a user-friendly tool that empowers you to generate and store complex, unique passwords for every site. Features like Watchtower alert you to vulnerabilities, such as weak passwords, unsecured sites, or accounts lacking two-factor authentication (2FA) capabilities. Using a password manager properly is one of the most vital steps to securing your accounts. The consistent use of strong passwords across accounts is essential for protecting your financial information and online identity.

• Freeze Your Credit: To prevent unauthorized credit applications, consider freezing your credit with the three primary credit reporting agencies (Experian, TransUnion, and Equifax), as well as Innovis, a lesser-known but equally important bureau. This adds a protective layer, blocking potential fraudsters from opening accounts in your name without approval.

• Utilize Privacy Management Services: Services like Delete.me help remove your personal information from databases, data broker websites, and public records. This extra layer of privacy reduces the risk of your personal information being exploited by cybercriminals or used in phishing attacks. Online privacy management services can be particularly beneficial if your personal information was leaked in a prior breach, as they help eliminate new threats by limiting access points.

• Pull Your Credit Report Regularly: Review your credit report four times a year by rotating requests between the three major credit bureaus. This frequent monitoring lets you detect unfamiliar entries or unauthorized credit activity early, minimizing potential financial impact. This proactive approach is invaluable, as it also helps you stay on top of your credit health and detect any minor issues before they become major concerns.

• Check Your Social Security Statement Annually: Regularly checking your Social Security statement at SSA.gov is a responsible step that helps ensure no one is fraudulently using your Social Security number for employment or benefits. Verifying this annually lets you stay current with your recorded earnings and eligibility. It provides a moment to check that all your reported earnings are accurate, ensuring that your future Social Security benefits are protected.

  
  

Conclusion: Monitor and Stay Informed

Consistently reviewing your online presence and digital security is crucial today. Setting up regular alerts, using monitoring services, and staying informed on evolving cybersecurity threats can make all the difference. By being proactive, you not only protect your financial security but also contribute to a safer digital environment. Review the latest trends and adapt your practices to address any emerging threats. This knowledge empowers you to stay ahead of potential risks and protect your digital identity.

WHWM is here to guide you in identifying your priorities, developing a plan, and making adjustments along the way. By choosing WHWM, you're partnering with our Founder and President, Stephen Bodwell. As a CPA and CFP® professional, Stephen is committed to helping you achieve your financial goals and aspirations. Don't hesitate to take the next step toward realizing your dreams. Schedule your complimentary, no-obligation 30-minute consultation with Stephen. 

Walnut Hill Wealth Management, LLC (“WHWM”) is a registered investment advisor offering advisory services in the State of Texas and in other jurisdictions where exempt. The information provided is as of the date indicated and is subject to change.