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Technology: Balancing Convenience and Security

Our Purpose

Since the early days of personal computers, We've watched technology evolve at a breakneck pace. The initial promises of going “paperless” didn’t quite pan out immediately, as fast printers ironically led to even more paper use. Today, though, we’re closer to truly paperless systems, with bills, payments, and records handled seamlessly online. Many organizations, including ours, now embrace digital transactions, minimizing paper altogether.

Going paperless is just one piece of a much larger technological landscape. The most profound transformation has been in connectivity—from local networks to the global internet. This connectivity brings incredible convenience, putting the world at our fingertips. But it also comes with risks, as cybercrime becomes more sophisticated and pervasive.

Here are some security tips to help you navigate today’s digital world safely:

Systems and Equipment

  • Keep Systems Up-to-Date: Regularly update your operating system, as updates often include security patches.
  • Maintain Antivirus and Firewalls: Reliable antivirus software and a firewall are essential—keep them updated.
  • Secure Mobile Devices: Mobile devices are particularly vulnerable due to frequent use and risk of loss. Use strong passwords or biometrics, avoid storing sensitive information, and be mindful of what access you grant to apps.

Passwords and Authentication

  • Use Strong, Unique Passwords: Long, complex passwords are far harder to crack. Avoid reusing passwords across multiple accounts.
  • Consider Password Managers: A password manager can help you create and store unique passwords securely.
  • Treat Security Questions Like Passwords: Instead of using real answers, use unique “passwords” as answers and store them securely.

Email Security

  • Remember, Email is Not Secure: Think of email as a digital postcard—avoid sending sensitive information via email.
  • Use Secure File Sharing for Sensitive Documents: Platforms like Google Drive, OneDrive, or secure vaults provide more security than standard email.
  • Be Alert to Phishing Scams: Phishing emails are becoming harder to spot. Be cautious of unsolicited messages and never click on suspicious links.

Document Disposal

  • Shred Sensitive Documents: For any paper with personal information, such as Social Security or account numbers, shredding is the safest disposal method.

Social Media Awareness

  • Limit Personal Information: Avoid oversharing on social platforms. Identity thieves can use even seemingly harmless details.
  • Use Privacy Settings: Restrict access to your information and only accept friend requests from people you know. Remember, social media posts are a treasure trove for scammers and identity thieves.

Online Services and Vendors

  • Trust But Verify: Research vendors and their security practices, and whenever possible, use secure payment methods like PayPal.
  • Limit Account Creation: Not every online purchase requires an account. Unless it’s essential, consider using guest checkout options to limit your digital footprint.

Identity Theft Protection

  • Stay Proactive: Regularly check your credit reports at www.annualcreditreport.com to monitor for unusual activity.
  • Consider an Identity Protection Service: Many providers offer credit monitoring and identity theft protection for additional peace of mind.

In today’s interconnected world, the balance between convenience and security is a constant consideration. These practices can help safeguard your personal information and keep your digital life secure as technology continues to evolve. Thank you to Jim Williams for his original content that went into this article.