Good practices using Wi-Fi devices:

• Avoid unsecured Wi-Fi networks when possible. These are any open networks that do not require a password to join.
• If possible, use a VPN (Virtual Private Network) when connecting to an unsecured wireless network. VPN services are offered as an online service or can be configured on some home routers.
• Check websites for encryption when browsing. This is often indicated by a closed padlock icon in the address bar of the browser or by a URL that begins with https:// instead of http://. These websites are more secure and are not affected by this vulnerability.
• Keep your device up to date with the latest manufacturer software patches.
• Manually select Wi-Fi networks instead of allowing your device to automatically join. This adds an additional step before using a wireless network but ensures you know when your device connects and to what networks.
• Turn off your device's Wi-Fi antenna when not in use. 
• Utilize two-factor authentication where possible. This provides an extra level of security in case someone is able to capture your password. 
• Log out of websites or apps when finished. This is especially important for banking and other financial websites.

Good practices for setting up a Wi-Fi router:

• Secure the router with a password using WPA2. While the recent vulnerability impacts WPA2, this is still the strongest protocol available on most home routers.
• Limit access to the router to the specific hardware ID (or MAC) of each of the wireless devices in your home. This typically involves logging into the router's management page and adding the MAC addresses (usually found on a sticker on the device or in the device settings) to a list of approved devices. Devices not on the list will be prevented from even attempting to connect.
• Change the default password for administering the router. Factory default passwords are widely available and allow an attacker to easily compromise your device.
• When possible, limit administration of the router to physical network connections. This means you will need a device with an Ethernet connection to the router in order to manage the settings.
• Turn off remote management of the router if possible. Many newer models allow management of the router from outside of the home network, which provides an additional opportunity for attackers.
• Set the router to automatically install updates. If this is not possible, log into the management page of the router on a regular basis to check for updates.
• If the router supports a guest network, configure this for use by friends and family who visit your home. The guest network is typically isolated from the other devices in your home and saves the hassle of adding MAC addresses for devices that are not usually in your home.
• If possible, try adjusting the signal strength of the router until full coverage is reached throughout your home with minimal overreach (signal outside your home). This helps prevent attackers from sitting in a public area such as in a parked car while attempting to compromise your device.

The three-year COLA suspension for retirees and benefit recipients will begin on January 1, 2018.

In the same vote, the Board authorized staff to seek legislation that will delay the start of COLA increases for future retirees and benefit recipients until the fourth anniversary of their allowance or benefit. This will assure that future retirees are treated similarly to current retirees and benefit recipients with respect to COLAs.   

PREP Seminar

SERS offers PREP seminars for members who are in the early to middle stage of their career.  Any member can attend; however, early planning for your future retirement will be most helpful.

The half-day seminar program covers important aspects of retirement planning: pension payment information, health care, Social Security, life transition issues, and financial planning (Ohio Deferred Compensation). There is no registration fee to attend. Space for these meetings is limited, and advance registration is required. Once maximum capacity has been reached, that location will be closed to further registrations.

Registration is now open and can be completed on the Events section of Account Login. You will need to login to register.  You also can call our office toll-free at 800-878-5853 to register. 

The PREP Seminar originally scheduled for Saturday, October 21 in Avon Lake has been cancelled due to lack of interest. We will be in contact with all previously registered attendees.

Retirement Conference, Webinar, or Video

If you are planning to retire in the next five years, try attending a Retirement Conference.

Although there are question-and-answer opportunities, the conferences do not provide one-on-one counseling.  Contact SERS at toll-free at 800-878-5853 to register.