Financial Education

Data Privacy 101

Between your personal information, medical records, credit card numbers, and your online activity, there is an alarming amount of information being collected on you every time you hop online.

Data Privacy is the right to keep your data private. It is up to you to know what you don't have to share if you don't want to, and how to limit it. Here at Port Richmond Savings, we use sophisticated technology and monitoring techniques, intricate firewalls and other methods to secure customer data. Additionally, we practice stringent privacy policies and train employees to treat confidential information with the upmost care, meeting or exceeding federal and state mandates. You can view our Private Policy anytime.

Protect Your Data

• Restrict the use of public wi-fi and computers, which may be convenient but are not as secure so limit what you do on them. Avoid logging into email or financial services. If you must, consider using a virtual private network (VPN) or a mobile hotspot.
• Take advantage of security features. Update your computer security software and apply software updates to your computer system, mobile devices, web browsers, and operating systems regularly to defend against viruses, malware, and other online threats.
• Protect each account with a unique, complex password that is at least 12 characters long with letters, numbers, and symbols. If this sounds impossible, use a password manager. Password managers store your passwords in an encrypted database and many smartphones and web browsers include them. Also, consider using multi-factor authentication (MFA) when available. MFA includes biometrics (like a face scan), security keys or apps that send one-time codes when you log in to the account.
• Limit disclosed information- Never respond to requests for personal information, even if they appear to be from your bank, government agencies or officials, or companies with which you have a relationship. Report any phishing, then delete the message.
• Monitor your account activity- Carefully review your bank statements and card transactions, and check your credit report regularly for unusual or unexplained charges, unknown accounts in your name, or unexpected denials on your card. Report any suspicious activity to your bank immediately.
• Check your settings- Every time you sign up for a new account, download a new app or get a new device, immediately configure privacy and security settings to your comfort level. The National Cybersecurity Alliance offers this list to help you find and navigate the settings on various apps.
• Shop Wisely- When shopping online, do your homework and make sure the business you are purchasing from is legitimate. If possible, use a credit card instead of a debit card, and don't save payment information in your profile. To read more about online shopping, visit StaySafeOnline.org.

For a more in-depth look at data privacy and information about Data Privacy Week (January 22-28), visit the National Cybersecurity Alliance's Website.

Responding to a Data Breach

In the unfortunate event of a data breach, there are steps you can take to minimize your risk:

• Consider a security freeze on your credit report to restrict access to your credit file.
• Set up a fraud alert, which directs your bank to verify your identity before opening a new account, issuing an additional card, or increasing the credit limit on an existing account.
• Change your passwords.
• Report cybercrime to the Internet Crime Complaint Center and to your local law enforcement and/or state attorney general.