Every October, National Cybersecurity Awareness Month reminds us that while our digital world offers convenience and connection, it also presents new risks. From online shopping and mobile banking to social media and email, our daily lives rely on technology. But just as you wouldn’t hand your house keys to a stranger, you shouldn’t hand over your personal information without thinking twice.

At First Community Bank and Trust, your financial safety is one of our top priorities. That’s why we’re proud to participate in National Cybersecurity Awareness Month. It’s an opportunity to educate, remind, and empower our community to take proactive steps toward staying safe online.

Why Cybersecurity Awareness Matters

Cybercrime is not just a problem for “someone else.” In fact:

• Hackers exploit human behavior. Cybercriminals know that emotions drive actions. Fear, urgency, greed, and empathy can make someone click a link, open an attachment, or share personal information without thinking. Being aware of these triggers helps you pause and think before acting.

• Phishing is a hacker’s go-to trick. The vast majority of cyberattacks start with a deceptive email or message. Recognizing suspicious requests, especially those that play on your emotions, can stop an attack before it begins.

• New scams are constantly evolving. Cybercriminals adapt quickly, creating schemes that target both technology and human psychology. Staying informed about the latest tactics ensures you’re not caught off guard.

The good news? By building strong digital habits, you can drastically reduce your risk. Think of cybersecurity as a team sport…you play defense every time you protect your passwords, check your devices for updates, or stop and think before clicking a suspicious link.

Eight Ways to Strengthen Your Cyber Defenses

1. Use Strong, Unique Passwords
   Your password is your first line of defense. Use a combination of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. Avoid using personal details like birthdays or pet names (hackers love predictable humans). A password manager can help you keep track of them.

2. Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
   MFA requires something you know (your password) and something you have (like a code sent to your phone). It makes breaking into your accounts significantly harder. Think of it as a security guard asking for ID at the door. First Community Bank and Trust includes SecureNow as part of your account security, providing advanced protections that monitor unusual login activity and detect potential fraud. With SecureNow, your account stays protected behind the scenes while you bank online and through the mobile app.

3. Update Devices Regularly
   When your phone or computer says “an update is available,” it’s not just asking politely…it’s often fixing security gaps. Don’t delay those updates; they’re shields against hackers.

4. Be Wary of Public Wi-Fi
   Free Wi-Fi at the coffee shop is convenient but risky. Hackers can lurk on unsecured networks. If you must connect, avoid logging into sensitive accounts or use a Virtual Private Network (VPN).

5. Watch for Phishing Attempts
   Fraudulent emails, texts, and calls are designed to trick you into revealing personal information. If a message feels urgent, scary, or “too good to be true,” pause. Contact the company directly using a trusted phone number or website, not the link in the message.

6. Monitor Your Accounts
   Review your bank statements and account activity regularly. If something looks suspicious, report it immediately. Early detection can prevent small problems from turning into big ones. Sign up for First eAlerts so you can stay up-to-date on your account activity 24/7. And for even faster, more secure access, enroll in First eStatements to receive your statements online, skipping the mail and getting them sooner. 

7. Back-up Your Data
   Ransomware attacks often target personal files. Regularly back up your important documents and photos to a secure cloud service or external hard drive. That way, you won’t be at the mercy of a hacker.

8. Educate Your Family
   Cybersecurity isn’t just for adults. Talk with kids and teens about safe online habits. A little awareness now can prevent big issues later.

The Role of Financial Institutions

We know that peace of mind comes from knowing First Community Bank and Trust is looking out for you. That’s why we invest in advanced security measures, from fraud monitoring to secure login options. Tools like First eAlerts and My Cards put power in your hands by protecting your accounts and Debit MasterCard. Cybersecurity is most effective when we work together.

Looking Ahead: A Safer Digital Future

Technology isn’t slowing down, and neither are cybercriminals. But by staying alert, adapting your habits, and using the tools available to you, you can stay one step ahead. National Cybersecurity Awareness Month is more than a reminder. It’s a movement toward creating safer online spaces for everyone.

At the end of the day, cybersecurity isn’t about fear. It’s about empowerment. Each strong password, cautious click, and secure login is a step toward protecting what matters most: your identity, your finances, and your peace of mind.

This October, join us in making cybersecurity a daily habit. Because when it comes to your digital life, the best defense is a proactive one.

 

About First Community Bank and Trust
First Community Bank and Trust is a privately-owned bank. Established in 1916 First Community Bank and Trust has been serving Beecher, IL, Peotone, IL and the surrounding communities for over 109 years. Our commitment to providing the best banking products and services is matched only by our outstanding customer service. We offer traditional community banking services, including mortgage, consumer, and commercial lending, as well as state of the art electronic banking services.

Press Contact:
Steve Koehn, Senior Vice President
First Community Bank and Trust
(708) 946-2246

 

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