Monthly Archives: March 2020

Online Safety: Family Edition

computer

Today, having both Internet access and safety seems nearly impossible. While technology can be enriching and educational, it has its downsides. How can you protect your family from the dangers of the Internet while also allowing them access? Keep reading for some of our online safety tips for families.

Be Careful What Information You’re Sharing

Many hackers and identity thieves feed off oversharing. Be careful which websites you’re entering personal information into – don’t trust just any website. Oversharing is also dangerous on social networks, so be sure to make your kids aware of the information that shouldn’t ever be shared, like driver’s licenses, usernames or passwords, addresses, social security numbers, etc.

Be Careful Using Public Wi-Fi

Connecting to a public Wi-Fi network can seem harmless and convenient, but that’s not always true. Using public Wi-Fi in places like restaurants and malls is an easy way for hackers and cybercriminals to hack your information. Remember to use a VPN like this one when you connect to a public Wi-Fi network.

Keep an Eye on Your Social Media Networks

Random messages from unknown users have become more common as social media becomes more popular. Although it seems obvious to ignore spam messages, delete them and move on, kids might not know to do that. Teach your kids to never respond to an unknown person’s message online, and emphasize how dangerous it is to respond to strangers. The smartest move is to get your kids into the habit of coming to you when they receive a strange message so you can double check the user’s profile.

Educate Your Children

Most of the time, the reason kids fall into the trap of hackers is because they’re uneducated. Give your kids a mini lesson about what cybersecurity is, why it’s so important and how they can protect themselves. Remind them that if anything seems unusual, they should talk to you so you can make sure the situation is safe.

Manage Your Passwords

Most Internet users have the same couple of passwords for all of their accounts, making the hacking process even easier. There are safe password management systems allowing you to use a different password for all of your accounts, while only having to remember one password for the system. 

Backup Your Data

Cybercriminals that hack into your computer can lock you out of your own important files and information. Keep your files backed up regularly so in that situation, you know your files aren’t lost.

Although there are many ways your cybersecurity can be compromised, there are multiple ways to protect yourself and your family. We hope you protect your information with these top tips!

How To Stop Living Paycheck to Paycheck

coins

Living paycheck to paycheck is more common than you may think. According to this website, over 65% of Americans are living paycheck to paycheck and would struggle to get by if their paycheck was delayed by a week. Why is living this way dangerous? And if it’s so bad, how do we stay away from it? Keep reading to find out.

Why is living paycheck to paycheck so bad? If relying on your paycheck gets you by, some may wonder what the big deal is. Sure, it can be stressful, but it works, right? Wrong.

  • You aren’t guaranteed your job. 

Many people find themselves in the unexpected situation of losing a job, and once that happens, there will be no paycheck to live off of. 

  • You can’t build an emergency fund this way.

Living paycheck to paycheck makes it nearly impossible to build up an adequate emergency fund. This is something you should have in case something unexpected took place, like an accident, unexpected car issues, etc.

  • It takes a toll on you emotionally.

Living with the stress of not having a backup plan can really have an effect on a person. This stress isn’t good for you mentally or physically!

So, what can I do to stop living this way? You now realize the dangers of living paycheck to paycheck, so it’s time to talk about what you can do to either avoid it or start getting out of it.

  • Use automatic savings. Having your savings taken out automatically instead of attempting to save whatever is left over makes a big difference. You’ll be less tempted to spend your saved money and your savings will build up much faster!
  • Differentiate your wants from your needs. There are definitely necessary expenses, like food or a mortgage, but lots of spending decisions can be impulsive and unnecessary. Start by being more intentional with deciphering what you need and what is just an added expense.
  • Set some goals and have patience.The best motivator is an end goal. Figure out what you are striving for and remind yourself of that whenever you walk away from a purchase. Be patient and trust the process, because saving money takes time!
  • Find an accountability partner. Talking to a financially wise, trusted friend or family member to hold you accountable is a great way to stay on track and improve your spending habits.

Getting out of living paycheck to paycheck is difficult, but not impossible. The first step is simply to recognize the problem and start making a change. For help with your savings, contact Milledgeville State Bank. We’re happy to talk and help!