Weekly Security Tip - Protect Your Personal Data Online

Headline: Safeguarding personal data isn’t just a privacy issue — it’s a critical step in reducing identity theft and financial risk.

Why it matters:

Personal data — like email addresses, phone numbers, and login details — is a prime target for cybercriminals. When this information is exposed, it can lead to identity theft, phishing, unauthorized account access, and other serious breaches. For financial professionals and their clients, leaking such data can create risks that extend into client accounts and firm systems.

Keeping personal data secure helps protect not only individual privacy but also your organization’s reputation and compliance posture. Simple habits and settings can significantly reduce the chances that attackers exploit your digital footprint.

Quick Tips

What You Should Do:

• Limit public exposure. Avoid sharing sensitive details on social media or public profiles — only post what’s necessary.

• Use strong, unique credentials. Combine complex passwords with a password manager for accounts tied to personal data.

• Enable privacy controls. Review privacy settings on apps, browsers, and devices to control who can see your information.

Call to Action:

This week, review one device or service where you store personal information (e.g., phone, email, client portal). Adjust sharing and privacy settings so only trusted parties have access — and update passwords if they haven’t been changed recently.