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Cyber Security: Threats, Prevention & Education

Stop. Think. Connect.

By: First International Bank & Trust

As cyber security threats continue to grow in quantity and sophistication, it is critical that we remain educated on the latest attack methods and scams. Recent threats include social engineering, impersonating calls, email phishing and ransomware.

Impersonating calls are becoming more common and have included fraudsters pretending to be the IRS, the lottery saying you have won, the authorities saying they have a warrant for your arrest, or even vendor who have ‘detected' a threat on your PC. If you receive a call, Stop, Think and Take Action. These sources would never call you regarding this information, how would they have known your phone number, and if it sounds too good to be true it probably is. Never visit a website as instructed over the phone, and don’t let them access your computer.

Email phishing themes can include invoices, past due messages and even an announcement of a tragic event, such as the death of a loved one.

Ransomware is when the files on your PC or mobile device are encrypted and held for ransom. Avoid ransomware by being proactive; patch all software on your devices as updates are available, remain on current operating systems and practice safe web browsing and email processing habits.

Taking preventive steps will help to protect your personal devices and information.

    Patch your PC and mobile device Operating Systems.

    Patch all software on your PC and remain on current versions.

    Utilize anti-virus software and make sure it is current.

    Practice safe web browsing habits.

    Create backups of sensitive information in order to avoid loss due to ransomware.

    Use unique passwords on various websites, avoid passwords that are easily guessed or cracked, and remember, longer passwords are more difficult to compromise.

Having layers of protection helps to protect your systems. Stop, think and consider your actions on a mobile device. Consider, do you have the same security controls as you have in place on your PC?

    ◾Secure your home network.

    ◾Secure your mobile devices.

    ◾Keep your devices clean.

Educate Family 

We often allow children to utilize our devices. This may place the devices at risk. The Internet can be a dangerous place for children. Learn how to protect them! Enable web browsing protection (https://www.us-cert.gov/publications/securing-your-web-browser) and talk with your children about the dangers of the internet (https://safeandsecureonline.org/parents-guardians/).


The references are for resource and educational purposes only. First International Bank & Trust is not affiliated with and does not endorse the content or accuracy of information on other sites.


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