October marks Cybersecurity Awareness Month, a nationwide initiative launched in 2004 to promote the importance of staying secure in our increasingly digital world. Now in its 21st year, this effort continues to grow as the public and private sectors work together to spread cybersecurity awareness and encourage individuals to take proactive steps toward online safety.

This year's theme, "Secure Our World," is a call for all of us to take daily actions that protect our online activities. It's not just about staying safe in October but creating habits that protect you year-round. Here are four simple ways to boost your cybersecurity and stay safe online:

1. Recognize & Report Phishing
   Be cautious of unsolicited emails, texts, or messages that ask for your personal information. If something feels suspicious, avoid sharing sensitive data, and always report phishing attempts before deleting the message.
2. Use Strong Passwords
   Create long, random, and unique passwords that use uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. A password manager can help you create and store strong passwords for each account, keeping your information secure.
3. Turn On Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
   Passwords alone aren’t enough. By enabling MFA on your accounts—especially your email, social media, and financial accounts—you make it significantly harder for hackers to access your information.
4. Update Your Software
   Regularly updating your software ensures you have the latest security patches and protections on all your devices. If automatic updates aren’t available, make it a habit to check for updates often.

At Rally Credit Union, we care about your online security. By following these simple steps, you can take control of your digital safety. Let’s work together to make our digital world safer for everyone. For more information, visit the Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA.gov), an official website of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.

Stay secure, stay informed, and rally together for cybersecurity!