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Tips for Staying Alert Against Cyber Threats
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Tips for Staying Alert Against Cyber Threats

Cybercriminals are constantly evolving their tactics to trick you into revealing sensitive information or compromising your security. Take a moment to review these key security tips and remember—when in doubt, verify before you act!

For ongoing security updates and best practices, follow Citynet on Facebook.

Stay secure, stay smart, and keep cybercriminals out!

Caller ID Can Be Spoofed

Do not trust phone numbers displayed on incoming calls. Attackers can make a call appear as though it’s coming from a trusted source (IT, your bank, or even your boss). If in doubt, hang up and call back using an official number.

Phishing Emails

Look for Red Flags.   Before clicking on links or downloading attachments, watch for:
  • Unexpected or urgent requests (e.g., “Your account will be locked!”)
  • Misspellings, odd grammar, or generic greetings like “Dear Customer”
  • Mismatched or suspicious-looking sender addresses

Verify Internal Employees

Social Engineering is on the Rise

  • Attackers are now impersonating internal employees to gain access to systems or sensitive data. Be cautious when:
  • Receiving an unusual request via email, Webex, SMS, or phone (e.g., password resets, financial transactions, or file access).
  • An employee asks you to share information that seems unusual or urgent.
  • You get a call from IT support or management asking you to install software or change settings.

Use Personal Verification Questions
If you’re unsure whether someone is legitimate, ask a specific question only that person would know the answer to before providing information or access. Some examples:

  • For coworkers: “What project did we last work on together?”
  • For IT support: “What case number was my last request?”
  • For managers: “What was discussed in our last meeting?”

Always verify through an alternate method (such as calling the employee at their known extension) before acting.

Watch Out! Google Search Results Are Not Always Safe

Cybercriminals manipulate search rankings to make fake customer support numbers and malicious sites appear at the top. Always get phone numbers from official company websites and not from a Google search.

Remember:
  • Report suspicious emails to your IT department.
  • Directly call the person or a team member who handles IT security for your organization if you have doubts.
  • Stay vigilant and never rush when dealing with requests for personal or company information requests.
Remember, cybersecurity is a shared responsibility!

Keep up with more security tips and information by following Citynet on Facebook.

Protecting Your Personal Information on Your Smart TV
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Protecting Your Personal Information on Your Smart TV

Smart TVs have become a staple in many homes, offering convenient access to streaming services, apps, and even smart home integrations. However, just like your computer or smartphone, your TV can collect data, track viewing habits, and be vulnerable to cyber threats.

From voice assistants and built-in cameras to automatic content recognition (ACR) and third-party apps, your smart TV might be sharing more personal information than you realize. Without the right precautions, hackers, advertisers, and even cybercriminals could gain access to your data, putting your privacy at risk.

The good news? You can take simple steps to protect yourself. Here are 12 essential security and privacy tips to keep your personal information safe while enjoying your favorite shows and events:

  1. Adjust Privacy Settings – Review your TV’s privacy settings. Disable features you don’t need, like voice commands, camera access, and activity tracking.
  2. Disable Automatic Content Recognition (ACR) – ACR tracks what you watch to recommend content or serve ads. Turn this off in the TV’s settings to limit data collection.
  3. Keep Software Updated – Regularly update your TV’s firmware to protect against known security vulnerabilities.
  4. Use Strong Passwords – Set strong, unique passwords for streaming services, Wi-Fi, and any other connected apps on your TV.
  5. Be Cautious with App Permissions – Only download trusted apps. Check the permissions apps request and deny any unnecessary access.
  6. Turn Off Features When Not in Use – Disable the TV’s microphone, camera, or internet connection when not in use. Consider using physical covers for cameras.
  7. Avoid Using Public Wi-Fi – If you connect your TV to Wi-Fi, make sure it’s a secure, password-protected network to prevent unauthorized access.
  8. Enable Network Encryption – Use WPA2 or WPA3 encryption on your home Wi-Fi network to secure data transmitted to and from your TV.
  9. Monitor Account Activity – Regularly check for suspicious activity on your streaming accounts, such as unrecognized logins or recently watched shows.
  10. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) – If available, enable 2FA for apps on your TV to add an extra layer of protection to your accounts.
  11. Avoid Sharing Sensitive Info – Avoid entering sensitive information (like payment details) directly on your TV. Use a secure device like a phone or computer instead.
  12. Use a VPN (Optional) – If you want extra security, consider a VPN to encrypt your internet connection on the TV.

These precautions can help minimize the risks of data theft, unauthorized access, and privacy invasion on your smart TV.

Happy watching! Be sure to share this information with friends and family, and follow Citynet on Facebook to get the latest security info and tips.