Banking Security Quick Links
Cybersecurity Resources
Cybersecurity and Fraud Prevention Tips to Help You and Your Small Business Stay Protected Online
Cyber threats affect everyone, whether you’re managing a household or running a small business in Minnesota. Below you’ll find trusted, easy-to-follow online tips and cybersecurity resources for the most common risks, and practical advice on how to guard against them.
Think you've been a victim of fraud right now?
If you’re dealing with unauthorized transactions, a lost or stolen card, or a scam in progress, don’t wait. Visit our Emergency Fraud Response guide for immediate steps, or call us directly.
Why Cybersecurity Matters for Your Accounts and Business
Every year, cybercriminals get better at exploiting the same weak points: reused passwords, convincing fake emails, and unpatched devices. The good news is that most of these threats are preventable with a few consistent habits. Whether you’re protecting your family’s information or your business’s operations, staying informed is one of the simplest ways to stay ahead of them, and it’s a responsibility we take seriously as your banking partner, too.
Protect Yourself and Your Family From Online Fraud
Every day, your accounts, devices, and information are potential targets. The resources below cover the risks you’re most likely to encounter, from phishing emails to weird friend requests to unsecured devices, so you can protect yourself and your family with confidence.
Password Security and Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
Unique passwords, password managers, MFA as a second layer, and never sharing your login.
Ransomware Protection & Software Updates
Backing up your files, keeping software current, and knowing what to do if you’re targeted by ransomware.
Identity Theft & Data Breaches
What to do after a data breach, protecting your digital identity, and reducing your exposure to identity theft.
Smart Device, Wi-Fi and Router Security
Wi-Fi and router security, IoT (Internet of Things), smart home devices, wearables, security cameras, antivirus, software updates, safe app downloads.
Phishing, Scams and Social Engineering
Phishing, caller ID/text spoofing, fake checks, account takeover fraud, and verifying legitimate contact from us.
Social Media & Messaging Scam Safety
Privacy settings, selective sharing, recognizing bad actors.
Mobile Device Security
Protecting your phone from theft and malware, avoiding unsecured Wi-Fi, and staying safe while traveling.
Small Business Cybersecurity and Fraud Prevention
Cybersecurity isn’t just a personal responsibility, it’s part of running a resilient business. The resources below cover the threats that most often target small and growing businesses, from fraud to email compromises to employee training, so you can keep your operations, your customers, and your data protected.
Business Email Compromise & Fraud
Business email compromise, wire fraud, deep fakes, vendor impersonation, and verifying payment requests before sending funds.
MFA for Business Accounts
MFA and layered login security, protecting business accounts and systems, and reducing the risk of stolen credentials.
Ransomware Protection and Business Continuity
Backing up business data, keeping operating systems patched, and what to do if your business is targeted so nothing important is lost.
Employee Cybersecurity Training and Secure AI Use
Building a security-aware work culture, training employees to spot threats, and using AI tools securely in the workplace.
Cybersecurity Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is multi-factor authentication (MFA) and why does it matter?
Multi-factor authentication (MFA) adds a second step to verifying your identity, like a code sent to your phone or email, in addition to using your password. Even if a scammer gets your password, they can’t get into your account without that second step, making MFA one of the simplest ways to keep your accounts secure.
How can I tell if an email or text is a phishing attempt?
Watch for urgent or threatening language, requests to click a link or share personal information, and small mismatches — an email address that doesn’t quite match the real company, or a sender pushing you to act immediately. When in doubt, don’t click; go directly to the company’s website or call using a number you already trust.
What should I do if I think my information was part of a data breach?
Start by changing your passwords, especially anywhere you reused one, and enable multi-factor authentication if you haven’t already. Keep an eye on your accounts and statements for unusual activity, and consider a fraud alert or credit freeze if sensitive information like your Social Security number was involved.
Is public Wi-Fi safe to use for banking?
Public Wi-Fi networks aren’t secure, so it’s best to avoid banking or entering sensitive information while connected to one. If you need to access your accounts while out, use your phone’s cellular data or a trusted VPN instead.
What's the difference between antivirus software and a password manager?
Antivirus software scans your devices for malware and blocks malicious files or websites, while a password manager creates and stores strong, unique passwords for each of your accounts. They serve different purposes and work well together as part of a layered approach to security.
How often should I update my passwords?
Rather than changing passwords on a set schedule, focus on making each one long, unique, and different for every account — that matters more than frequent updates alone. You should change a password immediately, though, if you learn an account may have been compromised.
What should my business do if we suspect a ransomware attack?
Disconnect affected devices from your network right away to keep it from spreading, and avoid paying the ransom — there’s no guarantee it will restore your data. Contact your IT team or provider immediately, and reach out to us if any business accounts may be affected.
How do I know if a request claiming to be from the bank is legitimate?
Treat any unexpected request for personal information, codes or payments as suspicious, even if the caller ID looks right. Don’t reply or click. Contact 21st Century Bank directly using the phone number on our website or the back of your ATM card, and report anything suspicious to our Fraud Center.
Have questions about protecting your accounts?
Our team is here to help. Reach out or stop by a branch near you.
