In today’s digital world, protecting sensitive information is more critical than ever. Just as our clients can fall victim to scams, so can we. By staying alert and practicing good habits, we protect not only ourselves but also the people we serve.
This year, Cybersecurity Awareness Month highlights new and evolving threats alongside the everyday practices that keep us safe.
This Year’s Focus
Cyber criminals are constantly changing tactics. Here are some of the top threats we’re seeing right now:
- Smishing (text phishing)
- Fraud-alert texts impersonating banks or commercial entities
- Fake delivery notifications (UPS, USPS, FedEx) with links to “track packages”
- “Wrong number” texts designed to draw you into ongoing scams, often tied to fake jobs, investments, or even romance schemes
- Social engineering red flags
- Messages pressuring you to act urgently or keep things secret
- Requests to click links, open attachments, or log in somewhere unfamiliar
- Demands for personal credentials, PINs, or secure codes
- Check fraud and payment scams
- Stolen checks altered or “washed” to change payees and amounts
- Fraudulent checks created with stolen account/routing numbers
- Sensitive information exposed in check memo lines or visible account details
- Emerging tactics
- Deepfake voice or video calls impersonating coworkers or clients
- Fraudulent QR codes on public signage or materials
- Bogus AI chatbots or “support” pop-ups designed to harvest information
Everyday Best Practices
While threats evolve, the fundamentals of protecting yourself remain the same:
- Never click links in unsolicited texts or emails.
- Be skeptical of urgency or secrecy: if it feels pressured, it’s likely a scam.
- Verify independently by contacting businesses directly through official websites or published numbers.
- Report suspicious texts to your mobile carrier or use built-in reporting features when available.
- Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) on banking and other apps for a second layer of protection.
- Use strong, unique passwords and consider a password manager.
- Monitor your accounts closely and set up alerts to catch unusual activity quickly.
- Use secure networks and avoid public Wi-Fi for sensitive transactions.
Protecting Team TRB, Protecting Our Clients
When we prioritize our own cybersecurity, we also safeguard our clients and communities. Awareness and good habits across Team TRB create stronger defenses for everyone.
Stay sharp, and explore more resources at:
