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As we ring in the New Year and build resolutions, please consider adding safe cyber hygiene habits to your list. To help, I’ve gathered some best practices for 2022 that we should all strongly consider implementing.
1. Change your passwords.
Creating new digital passwords is just as important as changing the locks to your home or switching out that old filter on your furnace. A weak password allows easy access to your private information. Instead, select a complex password. One other note – never apply the same password to all your accounts – switch it up a bit for improved security.
2. Enable two-factor authentication.
Most applications and systems are ready for two-factor authentication, which prevents against computer hacks and further secures your account.
3. Update your devices.
Vendors release updates and patches to fix issues and vulnerabilities found in your computer systems. It is always a good idea to make sure that your devices are up to date.
4. Back up your devices.
Lost data is difficult to recover unless you have a good back-up. It is always a good idea to back-up your data to an external drive or to the cloud.
5. Secure your Wi-Fi connection.
Set-up guest access on your home Wi-Fi. This will limit the number of people who can access your primary Wi-Fi connection, which should be reserved for only household members. Guest Wi-Fi access is built with handy controls, which prevent guests from accessing your other digital devices.
6. Teach your children about cyber safety.
Children should be taught about password safety, social media security, clicking on suspicious links or attachments and using discretion when revealing personal information.
7. Beware of suspicious links.
Be mindful about clicking on links from unknown sources as well as responding to emails and text messages from strangers.
8. Security software check.
Make sure your computer and home network security software updates automatically and is not outdated.
Make cybersecurity a priority this New Year using our tips to keep yourself safe. For additional information and best practices, explore the rest of our Information Security posts.
Raj Sharma brings 19 years of Information Security experience in the banking industry to his role at Northern Bank. On the Northern Bank Team since 2018, Raj has played an integral part in building the Information Security function that is so critical to mitigating the ever changing security threat environment. He holds a Masters in Information Security and several industry recognized certifications such as CISSP (Certified Information Security Systems Professional) and CISM (Certified Information Security Manager). Raj is so interested in Information Security, he not only chose it as a career, he makes it his hobby and is constantly learning about new technologies.
Financial wellness is the state of having a healthy relationship with your finances, where you effectively manage your money, plan for the future, and feel secure in your financial decisions. Achieving financial wellness doesn’t happen overnight — it is a process that may take time and effort to achieve.
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Northern Bank announced today that it would begin accepting applicants for its annual $5,000 college scholarship award.
Northern Bank is a full-service bank dedicated to providing practical, common sense financial solutions to help our customers live their lives and grow their businesses. From deposit products to loans to payment and collections services, we work hands-on with our entrepreneurial customers, both locally and across the country, to provide the financial support they need to realize their personal and business goals. Founded in 1960, Northern Bank has assets of $3.11 billion with 12 locations serving communities throughout Middlesex County. Northern Bank is a Member of the FDIC, and an Equal Housing Lender.
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