At Birmingham Water Works (BWW), we take the safety and security of our customers very seriously — not just in the water we deliver, but in protecting your personal information as well. We want to share some valuable tips and reminders to help keep your information safe from online threats, hackers, and phishing schemes.
Recognize Common Cyber Threats
Here are a few common tactics used by cyber criminals and tips on how to spot them:
- Phishing Scams: Phishing is one of the most prevalent methods cyber criminals use to trick people. Often, it involves emails or texts that appear to come from legitimate sources, like Birmingham Water Works, asking you to click on links or share personal details. Remember, BWW will never ask for sensitive information, such as your account password, over email or text.
- Fake Websites and Links: Be cautious when clicking on links. Sometimes, scammers create fake websites that look very similar to legitimate ones. If you receive a suspicious link or email, double-check the web address or contact the source directly.
- Unsolicited Phone Calls: Hackers can also attempt to gather information by phone. If someone calls you asking for payment or account details, don’t share any information. You can verify the call by contacting us directly using our customer service number on our official website.
- Malware and Ransomware: Malware, including ransomware, is malicious software that can compromise your device if downloaded accidentally. Be wary of any unexpected email attachments or files and make sure your antivirus software is up-to-date.
Tips to Keep Your Information Secure
Here are some best practices to follow to help keep your information safe:
- Create Strong Passwords: Use a mix of upper and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols to create strong, unique passwords. Avoid using the same password across multiple sites.
- Enable Two-Factor Authentication: Adding an extra layer of security can make it harder for hackers to gain access to your accounts.
- Verify Sources: If you receive any unusual messages or requests for your personal or payment information, verify the source. For BWW accounts, only trust information provided on our official website or through official communication channels.
- Keep Your Software Updated: Regular updates for your operating system, apps, and antivirus software are essential for fixing security vulnerabilities.
BWW’s Commitment to Cybersecurity
Our team at Birmingham Water Works works tirelessly to monitor and enhance cybersecurity protections to keep your personal data safe. We invest in state-of-the-art security measures to prevent unauthorized access to our systems and proactively address emerging threats.
Cybersecurity is a team effort. Let’s work together to stay informed and safe from online threats. If you suspect any suspicious activity related to your BWW account, don’t hesitate to contact our customer support for help.
Stay cyber-safe!