October is Cyber Security Awareness Month, an annual global initiative launched in 2004 by the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) and the National Cyber Security Alliance (NCA) that raises awareness about online safety and empowers individuals and organizations to protect themselves from cybercrime and to stay safe online. The goal was to help people understand that staying safe online was becoming an essential part of everyday life.

To protect your personal data, bank accounts, and identity from modern threats—including AI-enabled scams and sophisticated phishing, the National Cyber Security Alliance encourages consumers to “make like difficult for cybercriminals” and recommends 4 fundamental habits:

Core Consumer Actions

• Use strong passwords and a password manager: Create unique, complex passwords for every account and let a trusted password manager generate and store them safely.

• Turn on multi-factor authentication (MFA): Add an extra layer of security (like an app-based code or biometric prompt) to all important accounts, such as email, banking, and social media.

• Recognize and report phishing: Watch out for unexpected texts, emails or calls that rush you, threaten you or ask for sensitive information or money. Never click on unverified links.

• Update software regularly: Keep your phone, computer and apps updated so you have the latest security patches against new exploits.

Emerging Consumer Risks in 2026

AI-Enabled Impersonation: Scammers increasingly use artificial intelligence to momic voices, video calls, or official company messages to trick consumers into moving money.

Malicious Copy-and-Paste (ClickFix): Watch out for fake website error prompts (such as fake security or browser updates) that trick you into copying and running malicious code on your device.

Small actions make a big difference. This October, Make Life Difficult for Cybercriminals!