Simple, clear conversations that build trust, reduce risk, and reinforce shared responsibility

Cybersecurity is a Retirement Issue—Not Just a Tech Issue

Retirement plans hold some of the most sensitive financial and personal information an individual has. As cyber threats continue to evolve, plan sponsors and advisors are being asked an important question: How do we talk to participants about cybersecurity in a way that’s effective, not overwhelming?

The answer is simpler than you might think. The most successful cybersecurity communication strategy includes plain language, practical steps, and a shared responsibility between plan sponsors, recordkeepers, and participants. When framed correctly, cybersecurity becomes less about fear and more about protecting participants’ long-term financial future.

Start With the “Why”: Protecting Their Future

Before diving into passwords and settings, it’s important to explain why cybersecurity matters.

A simple message goes a long way:

“Protecting your retirement savings is critical, and we’re committed to helping you keep your account secure.”

Position cybersecurity as part of the overall retirement journey—not an IT requirement. When participants understand that small actions today can safeguard decades of savings, they’re far more likely to engage.

Key Talking Points for Retirement Plan Participants

When communicating with participants, less is more. Focus on a short list of actions they can take immediately:

1. Secure Your Accounts
   Encourage strong, unique passwords that aren’t reused across websites, and stress the importance of enabling Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) wherever possible.
2. Monitor Accounts Regularly
   Participants should log in often to review balances and transactions so suspicious activity can be identified quickly.
3. Be Careful with Wi-Fi and Devices
   Advise participants to avoid accessing retirement accounts on public or “free” Wi-Fi platforms and to keep antivirus and anti-malware software updated on personal devices.
4. Stay Alert to Scams
   Remind participants not to click on suspicious links or share login information via email or text. Phishing remains one of the most common entry points for cybercriminals.
5. Keep Information Up to Date
   Current email addresses and phone numbers help ensure participants receive important alerts if something doesn’t look right.

You can also suggest closing unused online accounts to reduce exposure and risk over time.

How Plan Sponsors Should Deliver the Message

Cybersecurity communication is most effective when it feels consistent and credible.

Collaborate With Recordkeepers - A coordinated message from both the plan sponsor and recordkeeper creates a powerful “one-two punch” that reinforces trust.

Use Internal Champions - HR teams and company leaders can help normalize the conversation and reinforce that cybersecurity is part of the company’s culture—not a one-off thing.

Leverage Trusted Guidance - Sharing the Department of Labor’s online security tips shows participants that guidance is coming from authoritative sources.

Avoid Jargon - Plain language beats technical explanations every time. Focus on behaviors, not systems.

Emphasize Shared Responsibility - While plan sponsors and providers maintain strong safeguards, participants play a critical role in protecting their own accounts.

Structure Communications for Maximum Impact

Whether it’s an annual plan meeting, email, or enrollment reminder, structure matters:

1. Start with the Why – Reinforce the importance of protecting retirement savings
2. Provide Clear Steps – Highlight 3–4 actions (MFA, monitoring, strong passwords)
3. Offer Resources – Link to DOL guidance or your recordkeeper’s security center
4. End With Action – “Enable MFA today” or “Log in and review your account”

Consistency over time is key. Cybersecurity isn’t a one-and-done conversation; it’s an ongoing practice.

Going Beyond Education: Protecting the Business Itself

While participant education is essential, plan sponsors also need to think about protecting their organization. A cyber incident doesn’t just affect participants, it can disrupt operations, expose sensitive data, and create significant financial and reputational risk.

That’s where cyber insurance comes into play.

At RMC Group, we help businesses evaluate their cyber exposure and secure coverage designed to respond to today’s evolving threats. Cyber insurance can help cover costs related to data breaches, ransomware, business interruption, notification requirements, and more, providing an added layer of protection alongside strong cybersecurity practices.

If you’d like to learn more about the different types of cybersecurity risks and protections that your business should consider, we recommend reviewing our related blog that breaks down cybersecurity categories and coverage options in more detail. [Link]

The Bottom Line

Clear, consistent cybersecurity communication builds trust with participants and reinforces good habits that protect retirement outcomes. Pairing education with the right risk management strategy helps plan sponsors protect both their people and their business.

If you’d like to explore how cyber insurance fits into your broader risk strategy, the RMC Group team is here to help. Contact our office at 239-298-8210 or schedule a meeting here.