Stay One Step Ahead: How to Outsmart Cybercriminals with Everyday Habits
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Stay One Step Ahead: How to Outsmart Cybercriminals with Everyday Habits

Young man using his laptop outside of his house. Practicing smart habits to keep his financial accounts safe.

Cybersecurity isn’t just about passwords and firewalls—it’s about being aware of how you connect, click, and monitor your accounts. Here are four simple ways you can avoid common traps and stay safe online:

⚠️ 1. Be Wary of Phishing Scams

Don’t click on strange links or attachments. If an email or text seems off—even if it looks like it’s from a company you trust—pause and verify it before acting.

🔁 2. Keep Your Devices Updated

Regular updates fix security holes hackers try to exploit. Turn on automatic updates for your phone, computer, and apps when possible.

📶 3. Use Secure Connections

Avoid using public Wi-Fi for online banking or shopping. If you need to connect, use a VPN and look for the padlock symbol in your browser’s address bar.

👀 4. Check Your Accounts Often

Review your ECSFCU accounts regularly. Spotting a suspicious transaction early can help you stop fraud before it goes further.

Conclusion:
A few mindful habits can go a long way toward keeping your finances safe. If you ever spot suspicious activity on your ECSFCU account, reach out right away at 619-588-1515.

Members LoveECSFCU!

  • Cathy Sprecco with Koala - Australia 2015

    I had a fantastic trip to Switzerland and Austria this past summer with East County Schools FCU and the SD East County Chamber of Commerce. This was my 6th trip with this fun group! The Educator Tour, guided by the infamous Steve Devan, is the perfect way to truly see and experience any country. The train ride through the Alps was a personal favorite and such an amazing experience. Seeing and hearing cows and goats with real bells grazing on the side of the mountains made me want to sing a favorite "Sound of Music" song and look for Heidi or her grandpa around every turn! I really felt immersed in the culture. The extra servings of warm apple strudel helped too!

     I am a single traveler and all worries are put aside on these well-coordinated trips. Almost everything is taken care of for the travelers so I always feel spoiled! The fellow Educator Tour travelers that I have met from other districts and other walks of life have become my life-long friends! These trips are so dear to me that I have a separate savings travel account where I dedicate a small monthly amount to be ready for the next country!

    Come join us!

    Cathy Sprecco - Retired Lakeside Union School District Teacher