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Cyber Security

Protect Yourself

Cybercrime today is prevalent. Every day, cybercriminals look for new ways to attack accounts and steal sensitive personal information like account numbers, passwords, and more.

Spectra will never call you and ask you to give out the following information:

Full credit or debit card number
Credit or debit card PIN
CVV2 code on the back of your credit or debit card
Online banking username and password
Full social security number
Verification code

You should never give this information away by phone, text, or email. Spectra already has this information on file if you are a current member, unless you are setting up a new account or applying for a loan or new credit card.

Phishing Attack

Credit Card laying on a keyboard with a hook in it

When cybercriminals phish, they use email or hacked websites to solicit personal information by posing as a trustworthy organization. Phishing attempts usually occur in the form of an email but can also happen as a text message or voicemail. The message will contain a call to action that you recognize, such as verifying an email address or providing your detailed personal information.

Never click on links or attachments in emails.

Malware

Person looking at their laptop screen with an error message

Malware is short for “malicious software.” In other words, malware is sneaky software that destroys computers and steals your personally identifiable information in the process. Malware examples include viruses, worms, Trojan viruses, spyware, adware, and ransomware.

Install and maintain antivirus programming on all your devices.

Username and Password Breach (Credential Breach)

Hands typing password on a keyboard

Username and password breaches occur when cybercriminals steal your username and password. The best way to protect yourself against this scenario is to refrain from using the same password for multiple sites or systems. If you use a different password for each platform and one account is breached, your other accounts will not be at risk.

Use a strong, unique password for every account, and update passwords regularly.

Debit or Credit Card Fraud

close-up of a credit card

Cybercriminals steal card numbers from fake websites, public Wi-Fi system breaches, and more. Then, they use your debit or credit card information to pay for goods and services.

To prevent unwanted transactions, never store your card number within apps or websites. If you use Google Chrome, learn how to remove stored credit or debit card info.

Identity Theft

Hand holding a paper with thumbprint on it in front of a crowd

Fraudsters will use your Social Security Number, name, and address to open new lines of credit and drain your assets. Always exercise caution and avoid falling for their phishing and malware attacks so they can’t steal your information in the first place.

Monitor your accounts and credit reports closely and enroll in notifications to receive alerts when activity occurs on your accounts.

Fake App Scams

Hand holding a mobile phone on a fake app login screen

Fake apps are on the rise. Apps can offer a convenient way to shop and receive discounts but beware of imposters.

Always make sure you’re getting the authentic app when you download.

Resources

The resources below offer more information on identity theft, fraud prevention, and assistance for victims.

Information regarding identity theft, security, and privacy.

Federal Trade Commission

Tips and advice about common security issues.

Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency

Advice for protecting your mobile device.

Federal Communications Commission

Best practices for password authentication.

Federal Trade Commission

File an internet crime complaint.

Federal Bureau of Investigation