Conjure Up Cyber Safety
October 1, 2025
This spooky season, don’t let those cyber goblins and ghosts turn your online life into a real fright! With these four wicked tips, you can keep your information safe, protected, and secure from spooky surprises.
Passwords are the first line of defense between a criminal and your sensitive information. Every password needs to be at least 16 characters long, unique, and include a mix of random numbers, letters, and symbols.
- To keep track of your passwords, consider downloading a password manager. Password managers are one of the most secure methods for keeping information safe.
Enable multifactor authentication (MFA) for an extra layer of security. MFA requires more than just a password; it can be a one-time code, biometrics, or a physical security key. Never share MFA codes with anyone. Only scammers will ask for MFA codes.
Updating your software not only adds new features, but it also fixes security flaws that criminals may exploit. Updating your smart devices typically takes a few minutes, but it’s worth the extra time.
Look out for phishing and scams. Criminals use fake emails, texts, calls, and social media messages to trick you into revealing sensitive information. Here’s what to look for:
- Unexpected messages, urging immediate action or requesting personal details.
- Phrases like “You’ve won our sweepstakes!” or “You’ve been hacked!”
- Don’t click suspicious links or download unexpected attachments.
If you’re unsure if a message is legit, ask a friend, coworker, or family member. A second set of eyes can be invaluable in spotting scams. If you ever receive a questionable communication about your electric service, call 704-289-3145.
Applying these helpful tips can help deter cyber goblins and ghosts from invading your online life, allowing you to protect your accounts and information.