1. Phishing

Phishing scams — fake emails or texts designed to trick you into sharing personal info — remain the top way attackers steal money and data.

Protect

• Be cautious with emails or texts asking you to click links or share info.

• Turn on two-factor authentication (2FA/MFA) wherever available (banking, email, shopping apps).

• Don’t reuse passwords — use a password manager instead.

Detect

• Messages with poor spelling, unusual sender addresses, or pushy language (“act now!”).

• Emails that don’t feel like they match how the real company communicates.

Respond

• Don’t click links or download attachments.

• Report suspicious emails as spam or phishing.

• If you clicked a link, immediately change your passwords and monitor accounts for unusual activity.

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2. Malware

Malware is harmful software that sneaks onto your device — often through shady downloads, fake apps, or infected websites.

Protect

• Keep your phone, computer, and apps updated.

• Install antivirus software and let it run automatically.

• Only download apps from trusted stores (Apple App Store, Google Play).

Detect

• Your device suddenly slows down, crashes, or runs out of space.

• You see pop-ups or apps you didn’t install.

Respond

• Run a full antivirus scan.

• Disconnect from the internet until the issue is fixed.

• If necessary, reset the device to factory settings and restore from a backup.

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3. Ransomware

Ransomware locks your files and demands payment to unlock them. Criminals often use phishing or malware to get it onto your computer.

Protect

• Regularly back up important files to an external drive or secure cloud service.

• Be very cautious with email attachments.

• Keep your operating system and security tools updated.

Detect

• Files suddenly become unreadable or encrypted.

• A message demanding money appears on your screen.

Respond

• Do not pay the ransom (it doesn’t guarantee your files back).

• Disconnect your device from the internet.

• Restore your files from a backup.

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4. Internet-Facing Vulnerabilities

Anything you connect to the internet — your Wi-Fi router, smart home device, or personal website — can be scanned by hackers looking for weaknesses.

Protect

• Change default passwords on Wi-Fi routers and smart devices.

• Keep your router firmware and device software updated.

• Use strong, unique passwords and enable MFA where possible.

Detect

• Devices act strangely (lights, smart speakers, cameras activating unexpectedly).

• Unexpected logins to your accounts from other locations.

Respond

• Restart and update your device.

• Reset passwords immediately.

• If the issue continues, disconnect the device until it can be checked or replaced.

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5. Account Takeover

If criminals get your login details (through phishing, weak passwords, or data breaches), they can send emails, shop online, or drain your bank account while pretending to be you.

Protect

• Turn on MFA/2FA everywhere you can.

• Never reuse passwords.

• Set up alerts on bank and credit card accounts for unusual transactions.

Detect

• Password reset emails you didn’t request.

• Friends/family receiving strange messages from you.

• Login alerts from locations you don’t recognize.

Respond

• Change your password immediately.

• Log out of all devices from your account settings.

• Contact your bank or service provider if financial info is involved.

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Staying Ahead of Cybercriminals

Cybersecurity isn’t just for businesses — it’s part of everyday life. Simple habits like using MFA, updating your devices, and staying alert to suspicious messages go a long way. Think of it like locking your doors at night — basic precautions help keep you and your data safe. Cybersecurity Awareness Month is a reminder that even small steps make a big difference in staying secure year-round.