Oak Ridge, N.J. -- Sept. 28, 2015 – The internet is a powerful resource that many Americans have come to depend on for everyday activities like shopping, banking, and connecting with friends. Yet, for all of the internet’s advantages, it can also make users vulnerable to fraud, identity theft and other scams.
“As cybercrime becomes more prevalent, it is important for users to take steps to protect themselves online,” said Karen Garrera, Chief Retail Officer. “Safeguarding your personal information and money is a partnership between you and your bank. We work diligently to protect your information and so should you.”
In recognition of National Cyber Security Awareness Month, Lakeland Bank offers the following tips to help consumers stay safe and secure online:
- Keep your computers and mobile devices up to date. Having the most recent security software, web browser, and operating system are the best defenses against viruses, malware, and other online threats. Turn on automatic updates to receive the latest fixes as they become available.
- Set strong passwords. A strong password is at least eight characters in length and includes a mix of upper and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters.
- Watch out for phishing scams. Phishing scams use fraudulent emails and websites to trick users into disclosing private account or login information. Do not click on links or open any attachments or pop-up screens from sources you are not familiar with.
- Forward phishing emails to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at spam at uce dot gov – and to the company, bank, or organization impersonated in the email.
- Keep personal information personal. Hackers can use social media profiles to figure out your passwords and answer those security questions in the password reset tools. Lock down your privacy settings and avoid posting things like birthdays, addresses, mother’s maiden name, etc. Be wary of requests to connect from people you do not know.
- Secure your internet connection. Always protect your home wireless network with a password. When connecting to public Wi-Fi networks, be cautious about what information you are sending over it.
- Shop safely. Before shopping online, make sure the website uses secure technology. When you are at the checkout screen, verify that the web address begins with https. Also, check to see if a tiny locked padlock symbol appears on the page.
- Read the site’s privacy policies. Though long and complex, privacy policies tell you how the site protects the personal information it collects.
Throughout the year, Lakeland Bank helps consumers and small business owners strengthen their financial decision making abilities and protect their financial information. The Bank provides content through its integrated digital channels including our Simply Speaking Blog, Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.
Lakeland Bancorp (LBAI), the holding company for Lakeland Bank, has $3.7 billion in total assets with 48 branch offices, five regional lending centers, and two loan production offices spanning Bergen, Essex, Middlesex, Morris, Passaic, Somerset, Sussex, Union and Warren counties in New Jersey, and the Hudson Valley region of New York. Lakeland Bank offers an extensive array of consumer and commercial products and services, including online and mobile banking, localized commercial lending teams, and 24-hour or less turnaround time on consumer loan applications. For more information about the full line of products and services, visit LakelandBank.com.
