Protecting your Wealth, Data and Peace of Mind

Protecting your Wealth, Data and Peace of Mind

Cybercrime is now one of the fastest-growing threats to personal wealth—and it affects everyone. That was the resounding message from our recent cybersecurity panel featuring FBI special agent Joe Herman, Charles Schwab & Co. senior manager Page Adlington, and Duncan Miller, president & CEO of our event co-host Legacy Wealth Management. Their shared advice was simple: there is no shame in being targeted. In fact, the sooner you report suspicious activity, the more likely your financial institution, the FBI, or the Secret Service can recover your funds.

Email remains the greatest point of vulnerability. More than 99% of major financial breaches begin with a compromised inbox—often without the victim realizing it. Fraudsters insert themselves into real transactions, mirroring messages, altering instructions, and diverting payments, especially in home purchases and investment transfers. Text messages and calls are just as easily manipulated, with convincing impersonations of government agencies, financial institutions, and even loved ones.

The panel emphasized that cybercriminals prey on urgency and trust. They will use AI-generated voices, fake banking websites, romance schemes, or “grandchild emergencies” to push people into quick decisions. Strong passwords, secure devices, and a healthy dose of skepticism go a long way toward shutting the door.

Four ways to protect your data, wealth, and peace of mind:

• Assume any unsolicited message could be fraudulent. Avoid clicking links and verify all financial or sensitive requests by calling the person or institution at the number you already know.
• Use strong, unique passwords and enable multi-factor authentication everywhere.
• Avoid sending sensitive information over open email or public Wi-Fi; use encrypted portals and reputable VPNs.
• Trust your instincts—and report anything suspicious immediately. Quick action is often the difference between a loss and a recovery.

Your vigilance, layered security, and willingness to ask for help remain your strongest defenses.

At the Community Foundation, we take the security of donors’ charitable funds and personal information seriously. Our systems are regularly reviewed and upgraded, and you will see additional security enhancements in 2026. If you ever have questions or concerns, please email Executive Vice President & COO Sutton Mora or call her at (901) 722-0054.