State Rep. Warren Petryk

Since 2004, Congress has designated October as Cybersecurity Awareness Month. During this time, people and businesses are asked to take inventory of their cybersecurity practices and to raise public awareness of cybersecurity issues. With our infrastructure becoming even more dependent on information technology, we need to be reminded of the significance of safeguarding our online identities from thieves who want to steal our personal information.

The Wisconsin Department of Trade, Agriculture, and Consumer Protections' (DATCP) Consumer Protection Division says it is crucial for individuals to be cyber-aware. A pop-up warning is among the most potent instances of fraud. It could appear to be an error message from your operating system or antivirus software and use logos from trusted companies or websites, while giving you a phone number to call or a link to click for support. Scammers who claim to provide tech help try to have their websites appear in online searches for that service. Or they could create their own web ads. The con artists are counting on you to call the number and ask for assistance.

If you accidentally send money to a scammer, immediately alert the mobile payment app, request that they reverse the transaction, and file a complaint about the fraudulent transaction. You can also speak with your lender to find out if there are any safeguards against fraudulent transactions. If those efforts are ineffective, you could file a complaint with the Bureau of Consumer Protection.

As we navigate this digital environment, consider adding these practices to your digital routine: When it comes to password routine, start simple. Make sure the passwords for your online accounts are strong and distinctive and think about using a password manager. If one of your passwords is stolen, thieves will try to see if you used that password anywhere else to access your data. Also, ask your email provider if they offer you the ability to have unique email addresses to minimize risk as well.

Furthermore, enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) wherever possible. MFA requires users provide two or more authentication factors at login to confirm their identity. The three most common factors are verifying your identity through something you know, have, or are. This means that before you can log into your account, you would need to enter in a one-time code that was sent to another email or through a text to your phone. This might also include answering a secret question or scanning your fingerprint on your phone to unlock a program. By adding this extra firewall you are protecting yourself in case your username or password are stolen.

If you want to learn more about what you can do to keep safe online by visiting the state consumer protection website at https://datcp.wi.gov If you have questions or believe you are a victim of a scam, you can report it by contacting the Consumer Protection Hotline by phone at(800-422-7128 or by email at DATCPHotline@wi.gov.