Every October, Cybersecurity Awareness Month reminds us that staying safe online is everyone’s responsibility. Whether you’re logging into your Keystone Bank account, managing payroll for your business, or shopping online, cybersecurity and fraud awareness should always be part of your daily routine.

At Keystone Bank, we’re proud to serve individuals and businesses across Central Texas. Our banking security systems are built with advanced encryption and fraud protection tools, but proper cybersecurity begins with awareness and action.

Let’s start with the basics. Here are our top cybersecurity best practices to help you safeguard your accounts, devices, and data all year long.

 

1. Know What Keystone Bank Will Never Ask You For

Online fraudsters are becoming more sophisticated, often posing as legitimate financial institutions to gain your trust and access your information.

Keystone Bank will never ask for:

  • Your online or mobile banking password.
  • Your debit card PIN.
  • Your multi-factor authentication (MFA) code.

If you receive a suspicious message or call:

  • Do not click links or reply.
  • Hang up and report or delete the message immediately.
  • Contact us directly at (888) 266-9707, [email protected], or use the Support Chat feature in our online banking or mobile banking app.

Your privacy is protected when you use our Support Chat within online banking — it’s the most secure way to verify any bank communication.

 

2. Strengthen Your Passwords and Enable Multi-Factor Authentication

Think of your password as a key, and MFA as a deadbolt. Together, they make your online security virtually impenetrable.

Tips for stronger passwords:

  • Use unique passwords for every account.
  • Mix uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols.
  • Avoid personal details that can be easily identifiable, like birthdays or pet names.
  • Update passwords regularly and never store them in plain text.

Adding multi-factor authentication provides an extra layer of protection. Even if your password is compromised, no one can access your account without the verification code sent to your device.

Note: Keystone Bank requires MFA for all digital banking users (we will never ask for your code).

For more ways to protect your finances, explore financial freedom insights for secure money management and digital wellness tips.

 

3. Be on Guard for Phishing or Fraud Scams

Phishing emails, texts, and calls are among the most common online threats. These schemes are designed to trick you into clicking on malicious links or revealing private information.

Spot the warning signs:

  • Slightly altered sender email addresses ([email protected] vs. [email protected] – notice the extra “c” in the first email listed).
  • Messages creating urgency or fear (“Act now!” “Your account will be closed!”).
  • Poor grammar or suspicious formatting.
  • Links that don’t match the sender’s address (tip: hover your mouse over the link to preview the URL destination before you click).

When in doubt, don’t click. Instead, log in directly through the Keystone Bank website or mobile app to verify your account activity.

 

4. Keep Your Devices and Software Up to Date

Hackers look for weak spots in outdated software. Keeping your systems up to date is one of the easiest ways to protect against attacks.

Smart updating habits:

  • Turn on automatic updates for devices and apps.
  • Keep antivirus and anti-malware tools up to date.
  • Restart your devices regularly to finalize installations.
  • Limit administrative access to trusted users only.

For small businesses across Central Texas, updating systems is just as essential as balancing your books. Discover how to safeguard your operations with Keystone Bank's Treasury and Liquidity services, designed for enhanced security and control.

 

5. Monitor Your Accounts Regularly

Even the strongest cybersecurity systems rely on one essential defense: YOU. Regularly review your accounts through our online banking or the Keystone Bank Mobile App and set up real-time alerts to stay ahead of suspicious activity.

These alerts can help you spot:

  • Large or unusual withdrawals.
  • New device logins.
  • Transactions outside your normal spending patterns.

If something seems off, please contact us immediately at (888) 266-9707 or message us securely through [email protected] or our Support Chat. Early detection can stop fraud before it spreads.

 

6. Build a Cybersecurity Culture at Work

Your employees are your company’s first line of defense. A single click on a malicious email can compromise your network.

Strengthen your defenses by:

  • Creating a clear cybersecurity policy for your organization.
  • Using dual control for large transactions.
  • Training employees regularly to recognize phishing attempts.
  • Restricting system access based on job roles.
  • Encrypting sensitive data and disposing of old devices securely.

For expert guidance, explore the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Cybersecurity Framework for Small Businesses.

 

7. Plan and Prepare for the Unexpected

Even with robust defenses, cybersecurity incidents can still occur. Having a plan ensures a quick recovery.

Cyber readiness checklist:

  • Keep a contact list of IT support, law enforcement, and financial institutions.
  • Back up important data securely offline.
  • Notify affected parties immediately if a breach occurs.
  • Test your plan annually and adjust as needed.

Preparation today can make all the difference tomorrow.

 

8. When in Doubt, Reach Out

Cyber threats evolve daily, but so do your defenses when you partner with Keystone Bank.

If you suspect fraud, phishing, or unusual activity, trust your instincts and contact us right away.

Call: (888) 266-9707
Email: [email protected]
Message securely: Support Chat in online or mobile banking

Together, we can keep your information and your finances protected every day.

 

Cybersecurity Support Across Central Texas

From Bee Cave to Austin, Ballinger, and Bastrop, Keystone Bank proudly supports the financial and digital security of individuals and businesses across Central Texas.

Whether you’re a small business owner managing payroll or a family protecting your savings, we’re here to help you bank safely and confidently.

Visit your nearest branch or contact us online to strengthen your cybersecurity today.

Explore more at www.keystone.bank

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What’s the most important step I can take to improve online banking security?

A: Enable enhanced multi-factor authentication (MFA) such as using passkeys or an authenticator app — it’s one of the most effective ways to protect your accounts.

Q: How can I recognize a phishing scam?

A: Look for typos, mismatched URLs, or urgent messages. Always verify suspicious communications directly with Keystone Bank.

Q: Are Keystone Bank’s online and mobile platforms safe?

A: Yes. Our systems use advanced encryption and continuous fraud monitoring to protect your information.

Q: How can my business improve its cybersecurity?

A: Train your employees, secure your Wi-Fi, and explore business banking solutions for built-in fraud prevention tools.

Q: How does cybersecurity connect to financial freedom?

A: Cybersecurity safeguards your assets and identity — two essential parts of achieving financial freedom with confidence.

 

Conclusion: Stay Secure with Keystone Bank

At Keystone Bank, your financial security is our top priority. From our headquarters in Bee Cave to our branches in Austin and Ballinger, and our loan production office in Bastrop, we’re dedicated to protecting Texans’ digital and financial lives with trust, technology, and a personal touch.

Because when you bank locally with Keystone Bank, you get more than an account — you get a financial partner who protects your tomorrow.