Crack Down on Cybercrime

Every day, we are integrating more smart devices into our home networks, often without a second thought. From smart light bulbs to connected kitchen appliances, our homes are becoming increasingly interconnected. While controlling our environments with a smartphone can open up a world of convenience and efficiency, it also brings a host of security concerns that must be considered.

“Cyber threats don’t stop at our front door, which is why electric cooperatives are deeply committed to staying on top of the latest cybersecurity practices.”

“October is National Cybersecurity Awareness Month, and while we should always be vigilant of the latest cyber threats and risks, this is a great time of year to consider simple steps we can take to make our digital lives more secure,” says Brian Burnett, director of cybersecurity for North Carolina’s Electric Cooperatives.

When you bring new connected devices into your home, it’s crucial to understand what you’re adding to your network and how to do so securely. If you connect devices without understanding the implications, you could be opening the door to potential problems. Remember, manufacturers typically prioritize functionality and profit over security. They deliver the basics of what you need, leaving you responsible for securing the rest.

To help you navigate this complex landscape, here are a few tips to help you secure connected devices on your home network.

• Secure your router (or modem). Your router comes with a default ID assigned by the manufacturer. Consider changing the router name to one that is unique to you. You should also change the router’s default password to a stronger one that is at least 12 characters long and includes letters, numbers and symbols. Speaking of passwords ...
• Be smart about passwords. Remember to change default login passwords on all devices, and use strong, unique passwords for every device and online account. Avoid reusing passwords, and if you have trouble remembering them, enlist the help of a password manager. These services automate passwords, creating and saving passwords that are complex, random and secure. Some are free, some are available for a low subscription fee, so research which one might be best for you and your family.
• Know what you’re connecting to your home network. Understand the purpose of each device on your network. If possible, keep your most critical devices on a separate network from your smart home gadgets to minimize risk. Many routers allow you to create a secondary (guest) network, which can be used to separate your smart devices from other connected electronics, like your laptop. This will prevent a hacker who finds their way in through, say, a smart doorbell account (it’s been done) from accessing every other device on your network.
• Set devices to update automatically. Most device manufacturers roll out updates to resolve bugs and enhance functionality. You should be able to select an “automatic update” option to ensure your devices include the latest security patches and features.

Feeling overwhelmed? Find a cyber buddy. Connect with a family member, friend or even a neighbor in your community who is tech-savvy. You can also check to see if your Internet Service Provider (ISP) offers support.

Taking steps toward better cybersecurity habits is about ownership, vigilance and proactive measures. With so much technology at our fingertips, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Remember: it’s a journey, so if you find managing multiple devices cumbersome, consider simplifying your digital surroundings. Being proactive now can prevent cyber issues down the line.

“Cyber threats don’t stop at our front door, which is why electric cooperatives are deeply committed to staying on top of the latest cybersecurity practices,” Brian says. “North Carolina’s electric co-ops support each other in these efforts, and we belong to a national network of hundreds of co-ops, all working together to learn about the latest risks and share our experiences.”

Staying informed in this digital age can turn challenges into stepping stones that increase our overall security. Together, we can secure our digital lives and support each other through the complexities of the modern age. Let’s take these steps together and build a safer digital future for everyone.

Is Your Identity Secure?

Take steps to protect yourself from a recent data breach

In August, a Florida-based background check company called National Public Data acknowledged that the personal information of nearly 3 million Americans had been stolen in a cyberattack. What’s worse, much of that data had been offered for sale on the “dark web,” including names, email addresses, phone numbers, social security numbers and mailing addresses.

With access to this information, a criminal could commit fraud like opening credit accounts in someone else’s name, collecting unemployment insurance, or accessing Social Security benefits.

Was your information a part of this breach? Take these steps to be sure.

• See if your name was part of the breach. Never enter your full social security number on a site that claims to help with this. A reputable cybersecurity firm, Pentester, offers a search tool at npd.pentester.com that only requires your name, state and birth year.
• If your name isn’t on the list, still consider using an identify theft protection service to make sure your information stays secure.
• If your name is on the list, don’t panic, but do take action.

Strongly consider placing a credit freeze with each of the three credit bureaus. (Yes, you’ll have to place a freeze with each separately.) This will prevent each bureau from sharing your credit report with others, which is a necessary step when doing things like buying a car or opening a credit card. You can unfreeze your accounts at any point if you need to make such a transaction. Place a freeze online or contact each by phone:

• Equifax  |  equifax.com  |  1-800-525-6285
• Experian  |  experian.com  |   1-888-397-3742
• TransUnion  |  transunion.com  |  1-800-680-7289

If you have not done so already, visit ssa.gov to create a personal “my Social Security” account with the U.S. Social Security Administration. This ensures no one else will create an account with your information, and allows you to check for any suspicious activity and manage Social Security benefits. If you think someone has gotten into your accounts or has your personal information, visit IdentityTheft.gov. There, you’ll find more steps to take to find out if your identity has been misused, and how to report and recover from identity theft.