Stay Smart. Stay Secure.

October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month a time to refresh your knowledge and sharpen your defenses. As technology evolves, so do cyber threats. This year, we focus on how Artificial Intelligence (AI) is reshaping the cybersecurity landscape, and how attackers are using it to exploit vulnerabilities. Whether you’re at work or at home, staying informed is your best defense.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) & AI Scams

AI tools are powerful, but misuse can have serious consequences. Many people unknowingly put themselves at risk by entering sensitive or personal information into public AI platforms. This data can be harvested, reused, or leaked, even if the platform seems trustworthy.

Things to Know:

  1. Public AI is not private – Think before you type, information you type into free online chatbots may be stored or shared. Never enter personal details, account numbers, passwords, client information, or confidential business data.
  2. Scammers use AI too – They can generate convincing phishing emails, deepfake voices, or even clone legitimate websites using AI tools.

"AI is one of the most revolutionary tools ever created, but as with any tool it needs to be used safely," said Steve Bayer, AVP IT Engineer

Blackmail Using Encrypted Data

Cybercriminals are increasingly encrypting or stealing data and using it to blackmail individuals or organizations. This technique is often seen in ransomware attacks, where access to files or systems is locked or threatened to be released publicly until a ransom is paid.

How It Works:

  1. Attackers breach your system through phishing or weak passwords.
  2. Data is stolen or encrypted, making it inaccessible to you.
  3. The attacker demands payment in exchange for the decryption key or the threat of leaking your data publicly.

Best Practices:

  1. Keep your phone, computer, and apps updated.
  2. Backup data and devices regularly and securely.
  3. Never click suspicious links or attachments.

Social Engineering: The Human Hack

Social engineering is the art of manipulating people into giving up sensitive information. It’s one of the most effective tactics used by cybercriminals and it relies entirely on manipulation and human error.

Common Methods:

  1. Phone Calls ("Vishing") – A caller claims to be from your financial institution, the IRS, or tech support.
  2. Emails ("Phishing") – Fake emails that look real, often with urgent requests.
  3. Texts Smishing – SMS/text-based phishing with dangerous links.

How to Defend Yourself:

  1. Verify unexpected requests through known channels.
  2. Never share account numbers, passwords, or one-time codes over the phone, email, or text
  3. Hover over links before clicking to inspect the destination URL.

Be a Human Firewall

Technology alone can't stop every threat. You are the first line of defense. Every click, download, and interaction can either help secure your environment or expose it.

Human Firewall Tips:

  1. Don’t click on links or open attachments from unknown sources.
  2. Report suspicious emails or activity right away.
  3. Lock your device when unattended.
  4. Use strong, unique passwords with multi-factor authentication (MFA).

"The easiest way to secure your online accounts against the bad guys is to use Multi Factor Authentication," said Bayer.

Stay vigilant. Stay skeptical. Whether it's an AI-generated voice message, a strange email, or a too-good-to-be-true offer, question everything. The best cybersecurity defense is a cautious, educated user.

If you see something suspicious or you believe your account credentials are compromised, contact us immediately at 1-800-872-6358. Together, we are stronger.