This National Cybersecurity Month, the spotlight is on you and your money. In an age where digital threats, including hyper-realistic AI-driven scams, are evolving at an unprecedented pace, safeguarding your financial well-being is more critical than ever. It's not just about protecting your passwords anymore, it's about building a cyber shield against increasingly sophisticated attacks.

Understanding the Evolving Threat Landscape

We've all seen AI-generated videos on social media. They're so hyper-realistic they fool your eyes until you take a closer look. Cybercriminals have not only noticed this technology, but they're weaponizing it to make their attacks even more undetectable. Cybercriminals can now pass as a loved one, or CEO to get you to share personal information. This isn't a threat that just targets older generations. AI has advanced to a point where it’s fooling everyone, from Baby Boomers to Gen Z.  Houston Police Credit Union is here to arm you with the essential tools and actionable tips you need to spot these advanced scams and stay cybersafe in the evolving technological landscape.

Take a look at the two images below. Can you spot the AI-generated image?

*image on the right is AI-generated

Best Practices to Keep Your Money Safe

Strong Unique Passwords & Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

Think of strong passwords and MFA as your digital armor. They are your first and strongest line of defense against cyber threats.

  • Password Managers: Use a reputable password manager to create and store complex, unique passwords for every single financial account. This eliminates the need to remember them all and prevents one compromised password from unlocking everything.
  • Enable MFA Everywhere: This is non-negotiable for financial accounts. MFA adds an extra layer of security, usually requiring a code from your phone or a biometric scan in addition to your password. Even if a scammer gets your password, they can't get in without the second factor.

Be Skeptical: Verify, Don't Trust Immediately

The golden rule of cybersecurity is if you have to think twice, don't click once.

  • Verify Communications: If you receive an urgent email, text, or call about your financial accounts, do not click links or provide information. Instead, independently navigate to the official website of the institution or call them using a verified phone number (e.g., from their official website or the back of your card).
  • Beware of Urgency: Scammers often try to create a sense of panic or urgency to bypass your critical thinking. Take a moment to evaluate the situation calmly.
  • Inspect URLs: Before clicking any link, hover over it to see the actual URL. Look for subtle misspellings or unfamiliar domains.

Keep Your Software Updated

Software updates aren't just for new features, they often include critical security patches that close vulnerabilities cybercriminals could exploit.

  • Operating System: Ensure your computer and smartphone operating systems are always up to date.
  • Applications: Keep all your financial apps, browsers, and antivirus software updated. Enable automatic updates whenever possible.

Monitor Your Accounts Regularly

Early detection is key to minimizing damage.

  • Review Statements: Check your bank and credit card statements frequently for any unauthorized transactions.
  • Set Up Alerts: Most financial institutions offer alerts for large transactions, login attempts, or even when your password is changed. Take advantage of these.

Secure Your Network

Your home Wi-Fi network is a gateway to your devices.

  • Strong Wi-Fi Password: Use a strong, unique password for your home Wi-Fi and change the default router credentials.
  • Public Wi-Fi Caution: Avoid accessing sensitive financial information over public Wi-Fi networks, which are often unsecured. If you must, use a Virtual Private Network (VPN).

Educate Yourself Continuously

Cyber threats are constantly evolving, and so should your defense.

  • Stay Informed: Follow reputable cybersecurity news sources and educational resources coming from your financial institution. 
  • Recognize Phishing Cues: Poor grammar, generic greetings, suspicious attachments, and unsolicited requests for personal information are all common signs of phishing attempts.

To learn more on how to stay cybersafe with Houston Police Credit Union, please visit our website at HPCU Cybersecurity.