Stay Secure For Cybersecurity Awareness Month

October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month, a timely reminder to take a closer look at how you’re protecting yourself and your business from online threats. At Riverland Bank, we take security seriously and are committed to helping you stay informed, proactive, and protected.

As cybercriminals grow more sophisticated, a few simple steps can make a big difference in preventing fraud and data breaches. Whether you’re managing business operations or your personal finances, practicing good cybersecurity habits is essential.

For Businesses

Your business relies on technology every day, and so do cybercriminals. Protect your company with these essential security practices:

1. Strengthen Passwords and Access Controls
   Use complex, unique passwords for each account, and enable multi-factor authentication whenever possible. This adds an extra layer of defense even if a password is compromised.
2. Stay Alert to Phishing Attempts
   Cybercriminals often use realistic-looking emails or texts to trick employees into sharing sensitive information. Encourage your team to double-check sender details and avoid clicking on suspicious links or attachments.
3. Keep Devices Secure and Updated
   Make sure all company computers, tablets, and phones are protected with antivirus software, updated operating systems, and firewalls. Regular updates close security gaps that hackers try to exploit.
4. Educate Your Team
   Ongoing employee training is one of the best ways to prevent fraud. Teach staff how to identify phishing emails, report suspicious activity, and follow company security policies.
5. Monitor Accounts Regularly
   Review account activity frequently and report any unusual transactions right away. The sooner fraud is detected, the faster it can be resolved.

For Consumers

Protecting your personal information is just as important. Try these steps to keep your data secure:

1. Improve Login Security
   Create distinct, hard-to-guess passwords for all accounts and turn on multi-factor authentication to verify your identity. This extra verification step helps keep your information secure, even if your password is exposed.
2. Think Before You Share
   Be mindful of what you post on social media. Cybercriminals can use personal details like birthdays or pet names to guess passwords or reset login credentials.
3. Review Accounts and Credit Reports
   Check your financial accounts often and order your free credit report at least once a year. Report any discrepancies immediately to your bank or credit bureau.
4. Stay Cautious on Public WiFi
   Avoid logging into sensitive accounts when connected to public or shared WiFi networks. Consider using a VPN (virtual private network) for added privacy when working remotely or traveling.

Cybersecurity is everyone’s responsibility. Small steps today can help protect your information tomorrow. To learn more about keeping your accounts and data secure, visit riverland.bank/security.