Online Security Tips for your Retirement Account
- Register, Set Up, and Routinely Monitor Your Online Account
- Failing to register for an online account may enable cybercriminals to assume your online identity.
- Maintaining online access to your retirement account allows you to protect and manage your investment.
- Use Strong and Unique Passwords
- Don’t use dictionary words or letters and numbers in sequence (no abc, 123)
- Do use a mix of upper and lower case letters, numbers, and special characters
- Do NOT write passwords down or share, reuse, or repeat passwords
- Consider a secure password manager to help create and track passwords
- Use Multi-Factor Authentication
- Also called two-factor authentication, this requires a second credential to verify your identity
- Keep Personal Contact Information Current
- Update your contact information when it changes so you can be reached if there is a problem
- Select multiple communication options
- Close or Delete Unused Accounts
- The smaller your on-line presence, the more secure your information. Close unused accounts to minimize your vulnerability.
- Sign up for account activity notifications
- Be Wary of Free Wi-Fi
- Free Wi-Fi such as the public Wi-Fi available at airports, hotels, or coffee shops pose security risks that may give criminals access to your personal information
- A better option is to use your cellphone or home network
- Beware of Phishing Attacks
- Phishing attacks aim to trick you into sharing your passwords, account numbers, and sensitive information, and gain access to your accounts.
- Common warning signs of a phishing attack include:
- A text message or email that you did not expect or that comes from a person or service that you don’t know or use
- Spelling errors or poor grammar, mismatched links, shortened or odd links
- An email request for your account number or personal information
- Offers or messages that seem too good to be true, express great urgency, or are aggressive
- Use Antivirus Software and Keep Apps and Software Current
- Make sure that you have trustworthy antivirus software installed and updated to protect your computers and mobile devices from viruses and malware. Keep all your software up to date with the latest patches and upgrades.
- Know How to Report Identity Theft and Cybersecurity Incidents
- The FBI and the Department of Homeland Security have set up valuable sites for reporting cybersecurity incidents:
Source: https://www.dol.gov/sites/dolgov/files/ebsa/key-topics/retirement-benefits/cybersecurity/online-security-tips.pdf
