Ron Raypole
Growing up in a small community in northeast Indiana, we rarely locked our doors — everyone looked after each other. But times have changed.
It seems every day we hear about another security breach, and today’s thieves aren’t targeting traditional goods like electronics or the family safe. Instead, they want your (and our) data. Cyber thieves keep testing digital doorknobs and looking for open software windows to find a way to crack personal and business databases.
We take this threat seriously. After all, Noble REMC is owned and governed by you, our members. You’ve placed your trust in us, and we’re committed to protecting your data while delivering reliable, safe, and affordable power.
Unlike my old neighborhood, we don’t have an open door policy to our network at Noble REMC. As a cooperative, we’re part of a national network of consumer-controlled electricity providers working together to constantly evaluate and bolster cyber security measures. While there’s no sure-fire way to keep determined computer hackers out, we’re making it a lot harder.
First, we train our employees to watch for suspicious electronic communications on the website and within email messages. We make regular updates to our software, secure our parameters and continually inspect the network for vulnerabilities.
You, too, can help keep hackers from invading your personal data by applying some of the same measures. Protect your personal information by using strong passwords, keeping your antivirus software updated and using a firewall. Pay special attention to links within email messages. One of the latest methods being used by cyber thieves is known as “phishing.”
Hackers may send out an email message that looks legitimate with a link hoping people click on it. The link then opens into a site that allows the hacker access to your data.
In addition to keeping your data secure over the internet, remember to never give out your social security number or account information over the phone. Noble REMC will never call and ask you for your account information or to make a payment with a prepaid debit card. If you have concerns, hang up the phone and call us at 800-933-7362.
At Noble REMC, we work hard to minimize scam and cyber security risks. Of course, cyber security isn’t a one-time thing — we’re constantly improving and reinforcing our defenses with new technologies and best practices to protect your data and our operations.
No matter what security challenges rear their heads in the future, we are striving to be ready to meet them. As always, Noble REMC will be looking out for you.
RON RAYPOLE
President/CEO
