4 Ways to Stay Cyber Safe

In today’s world, most of us don’t leave the front door unlocked. We protect our homes, loved ones, and valuables from intruders with locks, alarms, and other security measures. Cybersecurity is no different. It’s the practice of protecting valuables such as your identity, banking and health records, and other sensitive information from digital attacks and theft.

In October, we recognize Cybersecurity Awareness Month. Given our increased reliance on internet-connected devices and gadgets, this month I’d like to share a few cybersecurity tips and let you know how Union Rural Electric (URE) is working to boost our own cybersecurity efforts.

According to the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Agency (CISA), an agency of the United States Department of Homeland Security that is responsible for strengthening cybersecurity and infrastructure protection, these are the 4 best ways to keep you and your family safe online:

Implement multi-factor authentication (also known as 2-step verification) on your accounts. The additional layer of protection makes it much harder for criminals to access your information. Even if hackers obtain your password, they may be unable to access your accounts if multi-step verification is enabled.
Update your software. This is one of the easiest ways to protect your personal data. When downloading a software update, make sure it’s coming straight from the company that created it. Beware of fake pop-ups that request urgent downloads. Better yet, turn on automatic updates.
Think before you click. Most successful cyber attacks start with a phishing email. Don’t take the bait when cyber criminals go phishing. Avoid emails (or texts) that look too good to be true, are oddly urgent or poorly crafted, or include unusual requests.
Create strong passwords, using long, unique, and complex words or phrases. Consider using a password manager to save time, work across all devices, protect your identity, and notify you of potential phishing websites.

For the Young People in Your Household

Just as you would talk with your children about safety in the physical world, discuss ways to stay safe online. Help them understand the public nature of the internet. Children need to know that what is shared online stays online and is difficult (if not impossible) to take back. Just as they would guard money or valuables, children need to learn to guard their personal information, especially on social networks. Help your children learn about and use privacy and security settings on social networks and gaming sites.

Keeping the Electric Grid and Your Data Secure

We’re doing our share on the cyber front. Part of offering excellent service is keeping that service secure and reliable. For URE, ensuring reliability includes using technology and best practices to keep our system secure from cybersecurity threats.

We also work together with co-ops across the country to develop new technologies and infrastructure, learn from each other, and keep the grid’s network secure.

While we can’t stop a storm or predict every disruption, as a co-op, we do everything we can to keep the lights on and our members protected. If we all do our parts, our interconnected world will be safer and more secure for everyone.

Level up your online security! 2-factor authentication provides an extra layer of protection for your peace of mind. Stay one step ahead of cyber threats and take charge of your digital security!

Sometimes the snooze button is a must — but never hit “snooze” on keeping your computer and software up to date! These essential updates correct bugs and security issues and can help keep your data secure

Don’t take the bait if you suspect a phishing attempt! If you receive an email with offers that seem too good to be true, urgent requests from unknown senders (or known senders but the message seems off), avoid it. Never click links or download attachments from suspicious emails.

Connecting to public Wi-Fi networks can be risky! Use a virtual private network (VPN) when you need to connect to public networks or use your phone as a personal hotspot.

Visit the Stay Safe Online website.

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