Privacy and Security

Online Security

Why It’s Important

In today’s digital age, protecting your digital assets has become more crucial than ever. With the increasing prevalence of cyber attacks, it is important to understand the impact they can have on your life and personal information. Cyber attacks can disrupt your daily activities and compromise your sensitive data, leading to financial loss and identity theft. It is essential to be aware of the common online security threats and take steps to safeguard against them. Implementing strong password management strategies and using two-factor authentication can add an extra layer of security to your online accounts.

To protect yourself, it is crucial to be aware of the common online security threats and take proactive measures to safeguard against them. Here are some of the basic steps to take when upping your online security.

Strong Passwords

One of the best practices is to implement strong password management strategies. It is no longer enough to use simple passwords that are easy to guess. Cybercriminals have sophisticated tools and techniques to crack passwords and gain unauthorized access to your accounts.

  • Create complex passwords including a combination of upper and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols, you can make it much harder for cybercriminals to crack your passwords.
  • Make it a phrase or word you can remember, with symbols and numbers substituted for letters.
  • Avoid reusing passwords across multiple accounts, as this can make it easier for them to gain access to your personal information.

Implementing a password manager can help you securely store and generate complex passwords for all your online accounts. This way, you can stay one step ahead of cybercriminals and protect your sensitive information effectively.

Two-Factor Authentication

Two-factor authentication, also known as 2FA, provides an additional level of protection by requiring a second form of verification, such as a fingerprint, face recognition, or a unique code sent to your mobile device, in addition to your password. By using this security measure, you can significantly reduce the risk of unauthorized access and protect your online accounts from cybercriminals.

This adds an extra layer of security because even if your password is compromised, the cybercriminal would still need access to your physical device or the second form of verification to gain entry to your account. It is important to enable two-factor authentication whenever it is available, especially for accounts that contain sensitive information or financial data.

Securing Your Devices and Networks

With the increasing prevalence of cyber attacks, it is crucial to take proactive measures to prevent unauthorized access to your personal information. While implementing strong password management strategies and using two-factor authentication are important steps, there are additional measures you can take to enhance your online security. One of the key steps is to regularly update your devices and software. By keeping them up to date, you can patch vulnerabilities and ensure that you have the latest security features.

Additionally, securing your Wi-Fi network is essential to prevent unauthorized access to your internet connection. By following the necessary steps to secure your Wi-Fi network, such as changing the default password and enabling encryption, you can protect your data from potential threats. These practices are not only crucial for individuals but also for businesses and organizations. It is important to educate employees on online security best practices and implement data backup and disaster recovery plans to minimize the impact of security incidents. By strengthening the security of your devices and networks, you can safeguard your digital assets and protect yourself from potential cyber threats.

Suspected Fraud

If you suspect fraud on your account, or if you received correspondence from HomeTrust Bank that you feel is fraudulent or unauthorized by you, it is crucial to contact our Customer Care Center at 800.627.1632 to report the suspicious activity. They will guide you through the necessary steps to secure your account and prevent any further unauthorized transactions. Customer Care Center representatives are available:

  • Monday – Friday 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
  • Saturday 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.