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Stay Protected: Cybersecurity Awareness

Stay Protected: Cybersecurity Awareness
With AI-powered cyber threats like account hacking and identity theft on the rise, POJ staff asked our technology advisor, Mark Shalowitz, for practical guidance — both for our organizations and individuals. Below, we’re sharing two top takeaways, but be sure to check out the full security awareness presentation and recommended awareness actions.

TWO KEY TAKEAWAYS
1. Lock down your most important email accounts
Start with emails tied to sensitive accounts (financial, medical).
For each one:
– Use a unique password not used elsewhere.
– Create an ~18-character passphrase that’s easy to remember. Example: HosannatotheSonofDavid! (length > complexity)
– Turn on multi-factor authentication (MFA). Authenticator apps are best; SMS/call-based is still better than just a password.

2. Churches are a prime target. Why?
Nonprofits hold donor data, financial info, and personal records.
Smaller organizations often lack:
– Full-time IT/cyber staff
-Advanced security controls
– Regular security awareness training