This National Online Bank Day (October 14) and Every Day, Let’s Help You Stay Safe and Protect Your Financial Health. Ridgewood’s 12 Cybersecurity Tips Every Bank Customer Should Know.

October 9, 2024

As we approach National Online Bank Day on October 9th, prioritizing cybersecurity and protecting your financial well-being is more important than ever. In today's digital landscape, where online transactions and digital banking services are increasingly prevalent, safeguarding your personal and financial information is a shared responsibility.

At Ridgewood Savings Bank, we understand the importance of keeping your finances secure. That's why we offer features like Premier Checking, which includes free EZShield ID Protection Plus, providing 24/7 ID restoration services.

12 Cybersecurity Tips for Bank Customers:

1. 1. Strong and Unique Passwords: Create complex passwords for each online account, combining upper and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters. Avoid using easily guessable information such as birthdays or names.
2. 2. Multi-Factor Authentication: Enable multi-factor authentication for an extra layer of security. This typically involves receiving a code on your phone or email to verify your identity.
3. 3. Regular Software Updates: Keep your devices and software up-to-date to address security vulnerabilities.
4. 4. Phishing Awareness: Be cautious of unsolicited emails, especially those requesting personal information or containing suspicious links or attachments. Verify the authenticity of emails and websites before clicking on links or sharing information.
5. 5. Secure Wi-Fi Connections: Use secure, password-protected Wi-Fi networks for online banking and other sensitive activities. Avoid public Wi-Fi hotspots if you plan to log into any of your accounts.
6. 6. Monitor Financial Statements: Regularly review your bank and credit card statements for unauthorized transactions and report any discrepancies promptly. Log into Ridgewood's Mobile and Online Banking to view your Ridgewood accounts.
7. 7. Protect Personal Information: Limit the amount of personal information you share online, especially on social media platforms.
8. 8. Data Backups: Create regular backups of your important data to protect against potential data loss due to cyberattacks.
9. 9. Be Skeptical of Unsolicited Calls: Verify the identity of callers who claim to be from your bank or government agency. Do not share personal or financial information unless you initiated the call.
10. 10. Secure Websites: Ensure websites where you enter sensitive information have "https://" in the URL and a padlock symbol in the address bar. Avoid entering personal data on non-secure websites.
11. 11. Stay Informed: Keep up-to-date on the latest cybersecurity threats and scams.
12. 12. Review Privacy Settings: Regularly review and adjust the privacy settings on your social media accounts and other online profiles, and limit the amount of personal information visible to the public.

Conclusion:

At Ridgewood Savings Bank, your financial security is a top priority. By following these 12 cybersecurity tips, you can take proactive steps to help protect your personal and financial information. Visit Ridgewood’s Cybersecurity Center to view more tips and over a dozen videos to help you safeguard your information and to recognize and avoid scams. In addition, we want to help you avoid having your identity compromised. Learn more about identity theft and the steps to take if your personal information is stolen here. 

Remember, cybersecurity is an ongoing effort, and staying informed is one of your best defenses against cyber threats. Together, we can take measures to help protect the safety of your financial health in today's digital world.

Products and services are subject to change.

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