Happy Father's Day to all the amazing dads out there! This summer, as you pack your bags and prepare for those well-deserved getaways with the family, don't forget to pack a little extra something – online security smarts! Just like packing sunscreen and that trusty travel first-aid kit, taking steps to protect your digital information while on vacation ensures a smoother, less stressful experience for the whole family.

Here at Texas Trust Credit Union, we want to help dads (and everyone else!) navigate the online world safely this summer. Here are some key tips to keep your finances and information secure, allowing you to focus on creating lasting memories with your loved ones.

Public Wi-Fi: Friend or Foe?

Free Wi-Fi at airports, hotels, and even coffee shops can be a lifesaver, but it comes with a hidden risk – open access. Unsecured networks are vulnerable to hackers, who can easily steal your personal information, including passwords and credit card details, if you're not careful.

Here's how to stay safe on public Wi-Fi:

• Think before you connect: Avoid logging into financial accounts, online banking platforms, or any site requiring sensitive information on public Wi-Fi.
• Use a Virtual Private Network (VPN): A VPN encrypts your internet traffic, acting as a secure tunnel for your data. 
• Stick to HTTPS: Look for websites with "HTTPS" in the address bar before entering any personal information. The "S" stands for "secure" and indicates that the connection is encrypted.

Dads on Duty: Keeping Devices Secure with Little Ones Around

Dads know all too well the mischievous nature of little hands. Here are some tips to secure your devices when traveling with kids:

• Set strong passwords and PINs: Use a combination of letters, numbers, and symbols, and avoid using easily guessable passwords like birthdays or pet names.
• Enable fingerprint/facial recognition: Most smartphones and tablets offer fingerprint or facial recognition for unlocking devices. These features add an extra layer of security.
• Consider a kid-friendly case: Invest in a sturdy case for your device to protect it from accidental drops and bumps.
• Download child-safe apps: There are many educational and entertaining apps specifically designed for children. Download these instead of relying solely on web browsing.
• Turn off location services: Unless absolutely necessary, disable location services on your device when not in use.

Credit Card Security: Always Be Prepared

• Inform your bank about your travel plans: Contact Texas Trust Credit Union and let us know your travel dates and destinations. This will help prevent any unnecessary fraud alerts when you use your card abroad.
• Carry multiple cards: Consider taking a backup credit card in case your primary card gets lost or stolen.
• Monitor your accounts regularly: Keep an eye on your bank statements and credit card transactions during your trip. Review them daily, if possible, to identify any suspicious activity.
• Report lost or stolen cards immediately: If your card gets lost or stolen, contact Texas Trust Credit Union immediately to report it and prevent further use.

Bonus Tip: Create a Digital Back-up Plan

• Back up important documents: Documents such as passports, travel insurance details, and itineraries can be easily scanned and stored on a secure cloud storage platform. This way, if you lose a physical copy, you'll still have access to it.
• Download maps and entertainment offline: Download maps, music playlists, or movies for offline access. This avoids relying solely on public Wi-Fi and keeps you entertained during those long travel stretches, even without internet connectivity.

By following these tips, Dads can navigate the online world with confidence while on vacation. This ensures a smoother travel experience for everyone and allows you to focus on creating lasting memories with your family. Remember, online security doesn't have to be a hassle – with a few simple steps, you can enjoy your summer adventures with peace of mind.

Texas Trust Credit Union: Your Trusted Partner in Financial Security

We at Texas Trust Credit Union are dedicated to providing our members with the tools and resources they need for a secure financial future. Here's one way we can help ensure your online security:

• Free Identity Theft Protection with Bonus Checking: Texas Trust Credit Union offers free identity theft protection services to our members with Bonus Checking accounts. This includes monitoring your credit report for suspicious activity and providing expert assistance if your identity is compromised.