Start the New Year Strong: Simple Steps to Protect Your Financial Security

Published on January 9, 2026 | 3 min read | Webster Bank

A new year is the perfect time to refresh your routines — including how you protect your personal and financial information. Cybercriminals often look for opportunities when people are busy or distracted, which makes developing strong security habits especially important.

By starting the year with a quick digital security checkup, you can reduce your risk of fraud and help keep your accounts safe all year long.

Begin with a Digital Security Checkup

Just like an annual physical, a digital security checkup helps ensure everything is working as it should.

Start by reviewing your most important online accounts — especially online banking, email, shopping, and social media. Make sure your login information is current, your contact details are accurate, and your security settings are enabled.

Update Passwords on Key Accounts

Strong, unique passwords are one of the most effective ways to protect your information.

• Update passwords for your online banking, email, and financial apps.
• Avoid reusing the same password across multiple accounts.
• Choose passwords that are long and hard to guess, using a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols.

Using a reputable password manager can make it easier to create and store strong passwords securely.

Turn On Multi-Factor Authentication

Multi-factor authentication (MFA) adds an extra layer of protection by requiring a second step — such as a one-time code sent to your phone — when you sign in.

Even if someone gets your password, MFA can help stop unauthorized access. We strongly recommend enabling MFA wherever it’s available, especially for financial and email accounts.

Review and Limit App Permissions

Many apps request access to personal information that may not be necessary.

Take time to review the apps on your phone and tablet:

• Remove apps you no longer use.
• Limit permissions such as access to contacts, location, or photos.
• Download apps only from trusted app stores.

Fewer apps and fewer permissions mean fewer opportunities for fraud.

Be Mindful of What You Share Online

Information shared on social media can be used by scammers to guess passwords or impersonate you.

Avoid posting details such as:

• Your full birth date or birth year
• Address or phone number
• Vacation plans or travel dates

Keeping personal details private helps protect you from identity theft and social engineering scams.

Make Sure Your Contact Information Is Up to Date

Accurate contact information allows your bank to reach you quickly if there’s suspicious activity on your account.

Take a moment to confirm that your email address and phone number are current so you never miss an important alert or security notification.

Get into the Habit of Monitoring Your Accounts

Regularly reviewing your account activity is one of the best ways to catch fraud early.

• Check your transactions often.
• Watch for unfamiliar charges or transfers.
• Report anything suspicious right away.

Early detection can make a big difference in resolving issues quickly.

Watch Out for Common January Scams

At the start of the year, scammers often send messages designed to look like security updates.

Be cautious of:

• Emails or texts asking you to “update” or “verify” your account information
• Messages claiming there’s an urgent security issue and urging you to click a link
• Links that lead to fake websites designed to steal your login details

Remember: your bank will never ask for your full password or one-time security codes.

A Strong Start Sets the Tone for the Year

Building good security habits now can help protect you throughout the year. A few small steps — updating passwords, enabling extra security, and staying alert — can go a long way toward keeping your finances safe.

If you ever receive a message that doesn’t seem right, contact your bank directly using a trusted phone number or website. We’re here to help you stay secure and confident in the year ahead.