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Cybersecurity threats are constantly evolving, and small businesses are often prime targets for these threats. While federally insured financial institutions, such as our Bank, are required to have strong safeguards in place, business owners must also take steps to protect their own systems and sensitive information.

The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) has outlined practical tips that every business should follow to strengthen defenses and reduce risk. This Cybersecurity Awareness Month, we’re highlighting some of the most important measures you can take to protect your business.

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1. Secure Your Computers and Networks

Install reputable security and antivirus software to guard against malware. Keep these tools updated and set them to run scans automatically after updates. If your business uses Wi-Fi, make sure it’s encrypted and secured with strong passwords. Firewalls are another essential layer of defense to prevent unauthorized access.

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2. Strengthen Authentication

Require employees to use strong, unique passwords that include a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols. Encourage regular password changes and, whenever possible, implement multi-factor authentication (MFA) to enhance security. This adds an extra layer of security beyond just a password.

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3. Control Access to Sensitive Data

Limit access to business computers and data to authorized individuals only. Each employee should have their own user account, and only those who truly need administrative privileges should have them. Laptops and other devices should be locked up when not in use, as they are common targets for theft.

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4. Train Your Employees

Your team is your first line of defense. Establish clear cybersecurity policies, set expectations, and educate employees on safe internet use. Train them to avoid suspicious links and attachments in emails, and teach them how to recognize phishing attempts. Remind them that connecting through public Wi-Fi can put the entire business at risk.

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5. Stay Up to Date with Patches and Updates

Software companies regularly release updates to fix security flaws. Enable automatic updates whenever possible so your systems stay protected without delay.

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6. Backup Your Data

Regularly back up important files and systems. Store backups securely, ideally in a separate physical location or in a trusted cloud service. Apply the same security measures—such as encryption—to your backups as you do to your primary systems.

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7. Monitor Financial Activity

Cybercriminals often target business bank accounts through scams like account takeovers or Business Email Compromise (BEC) schemes. Put controls in place, such as confirmation calls before authorizing transfers, and monitor your accounts closely for unusual activity. Remember—business accounts may not be covered under the same federal protections as consumer accounts.

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8. Secure Mobile Devices

Smartphones and tablets can be easy entry points for criminals. Require employees to use strong passwords, enable encryption, and install security apps. Establish a clear reporting process for lost or stolen devices.

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9. Watch for Fraudulent Transactions

Scams can take many forms, from worthless checks to fraudulent returns. Protect your business with the right insurance coverage and report irregularities right away.

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10. Keep Learning

Cybersecurity is an ongoing effort. Stay informed with resources like the “Stop. Think. Connect.” Small Business Resources provided by the Department of Homeland Security: https://www.dhs.gov/publication/stopthinkconnect-small-business-resources.

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Building a Culture of Cybersecurity

Protecting your business requires more than just software—it takes a culture of awareness and responsibility. By implementing these practices, you not only safeguard your company but also protect your employees, your customers, and your community.

At Security Bank, we are committed to helping local businesses grow with confidence. Cybersecurity is part of that commitment.

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Source: Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation. A Cybersecurity Guide for Businesses (FDIC-019-2016)

Cyber Security

Here’s why thousands of customers have already enrolled:

At Security Bank, we believe the best financial habits start small — and now, they can start automatically.

How to Enroll:
You can set up Auto-Pay in Online Banking or by visiting your local branch. Our team is here to help if you have any questions.

Don’t wait—simplify your payments today.

Set Up Auto-Pay Now

Laptop in the Sun

If you've ever wished saving money was easier, we’ve got great news: it can be.

At Security Bank, we believe the best financial habits start small — and now, they can start automatically. That’s why we’re excited to introduce Security Cents, our newest savings tool designed to help you build your savings with every swipe of your debit card.

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What Is Security Cents?

Security Cents is a round-up savings program that makes it easy to grow your savings without changing your routine. Every time you make a purchase with your Security Bank debit card, we’ll round up the transaction to the nearest dollar and transfer the difference into your Security Bank savings account.

Let’s say you buy lunch for $7.45.
We round it up to $8.00.
That extra $0.55 is deposited into your savings account — just like that.

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 Why Use Security Cents?

Effortless Saving
You don’t need to change your budget or remember to transfer money — Security Cents does it for you.

Small Cents, Big Results
Rounding up a few cents per purchase might not seem like much, but over time those pennies can add up to serious savings.

Total Control
You can customize your round-up amount (up to $9.00 per transaction) or stick with the default $1.00 round-up setting.

No Cost to Join
Security Cents is a free feature available to eligible Security Bank customers.

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 How It Works

  1.  Make a debit card purchase using your Security Bank checking account.

  2.  We round the transaction up to the nearest dollar.

  3.  The difference is transferred to your Security Bank savings account at the end of each business day.

It’s that simple.

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 Who Can Enroll?

To get started with Security Cents, you’ll need:

  *   A Security Bank Checking Account

  *   A Security Bank Debit Card

  *   A Security Bank Savings Account

  *   To agree to the program’s Terms & Conditions

Note: This program is not available for Business, Money Market, or Health Savings accounts.

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 Ready to Watch Your Savings Grow?

Whether you're building an emergency fund, saving for the holidays, or just looking to grow your cushion — Security Cents can help you get there, one swipe at a time.

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 Enroll today and start saving without even thinking about it.

Have questions? Call us at 217-789-3500, email support@securitybk.com, or stop by your local branch.

Coins in a Jar

A Faster, Safer, and More Convenient Way to Pay

As part of our commitment to innovation and security, we’re excited to introduce the new Security Bank Visa® Contactless Debit Card. This enhanced card offers a modern design, advanced security features, and the convenience of tap-to-pay technology.

What’s New?

Tap & Go Payments – Simply tap your card at any contactless-enabled terminal for quick and secure transactions.

Enhanced Security – Your name and card details are now printed on the back for added protection.

COMING SOON! Mobile Wallet Ready – Easily link your card to Apple Pay®, Google Pay®, or Samsung Pay® for digital payments on the go.

Same Trusted Card – Now Even Better – Continue using your card for chip and PIN or traditional swipe transactions when needed.

When Will You Receive Your New Card?

We are introducing contactless debit cards as your current card reaches its expiration date. Rather than a mass reissue, you will receive your upgraded card automatically in a secure, unmarked envelope when it’s time for renewal.

How to Use Your Contactless Card

  1. Look for the contactless symbol on payment terminals.
  2. Tap your card within a few inches of the reader.
  3. Wait for confirmation—a beep, green light, or checkmark.
  4. If contactless isn’t available, you can still insert or swipe your card as usual.

Manage Your Card Anytime, Anywhere

With the Security Bank Mobile App, you can:

Your new Security Bank Visa® Contactless Debit Card is designed to give you faster, more secure payments wherever you go. Stay tuned for your upgrade when it’s time for your renewal!

Questions? Visit your nearest Security Bank branch or contact our support team at 217-789-3500 or support@securitybk.com.

Contactless Debit Card

At Security Bank we feel it is important for future generations to learn healthy financial habits to instill a good foundation of financial literacy for a lifetime.

Importance of Financial Literacy
Financial literacy is crucial for everyone as it lays the foundation for a stable and successful financial future. Understanding basic financial concepts helps individuals make informed decisions about managing money, saving, investing, and avoiding debt.

Here are key reasons why financial literacy is important:

By fostering financial literacy, we empower individuals to take control of their financial futures, make prudent decisions, and build a solid foundation for their adult lives.

Budgeting and Managing Your Money
Setting up a budget is one of the best ways to manage your money. Start by listing your sources of income, such as allowance or part-time job earnings. Next, list your expenses, such as school supplies, snacks, or entertainment. Make sure your expenses do not exceed your income. Use your debit card to help you stick to your budget by tracking your spending and checking your balance regularly.

To open a youth checking or savings, contact a banker today at support@securitybk.com or 217-789-3500.

Adult with a Child

Consumers should always exercise caution when it comes to your personal and financial information. The following tips may help prevent you from becoming a fraud victim.

Learn more Cybersecurity Tips

Avoid Fraud and Scams

1. Keep Your Card Safe

Always know where your card is. Keep it in a secure place, whether in your wallet, purse, or a specific spot in your room. Do not share your PIN. Your PIN is like a password. Keep it secret, and do not share it with anyone, even friends.

2. Be Careful with Online Shopping

Use trusted websites. Only shop on websites that you know are safe. Look for "https" in the URL and a padlock symbol. Avoid public Wi-Fi when shopping online or managing your account, use a secure, private internet connection.

3. Monitor Your Account Regularly

Review your digital banking regularly for unusual transactions. Set up alerts to monitor transactions and when your card is used.

4. Report Lost or Stolen Cards Immediately

Act quickly. If you lose your card or it gets stolen, contact our Bank immediately or log in to your digital banking to report it. We can freeze your account and issue a new card. You will need to call or visit a branch to start the fraud and dispute paperwork.

5. Be Cautious with Card Sharing

Avoid lending your card to friends or family.

6. Secure Your Devices

Protect your phone and computer with strong, unique passwords. Utilize multi-factor authentication when available for extra security. Look for card skimmers before inserting or swiping a card at any point of sale – this includes gas stations and ATMs.

Please contact a member of our retail team to learn how you can safely use your debit card and digital banking.

Debit Card Security

In a recent scam, cybercriminals posted a fake video of Elon Musk on YouTube, trying to trick you into handing over your money. Cybercriminals often use AI to impersonate celebrities so that they can spread misinformation or trick people into falling for their scams. This particular scam attempts to trick you into depositing your cryptocurrency into an online account.
In this scam, the cybercriminals used AI to create a fake video that looks and sounds like the real Elon Musk. The video contains a QR code, and the AI-generated Musk urges you to scan it. If you follow the instructions to scan the code, you will be directed to deposit money into an account with the promise of receiving a larger return for your investment. The catch is there is no return on your investment. Your funds are deposited right into the scammers’ pockets!
Follow these tips to avoid falling victim to an AI video scam:

  *   Be wary of any social media content that uses endorsements from celebrities, because celebrities can be impersonated online.
  *   Be cautious whenever you are prompted to enter financial information online. Only use official financial websites.
  *   No legitimate financial institution will guarantee a large return on a small investment. If the opportunity seems too good to be true, it usually is.

AI Cash Grab
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