STATE AWARDS

The Lodge Activities Committee is pleased to announce that the 2025-2026 State Awards will be open for submission soon. Please review the below rules and we look forward to reading your submission!

LODGE MEMBERSHIP, MARKETING, AND LEARNING SECTOR

The below link will take you directly to the area where you can access the Virtual Membership Guide, Virtual Marketing Guide, and access HUNDREDS of digital assets to use on your Lodge’s Social Media Pages. You can also view many of the recorded webinars that have taken place on a number of topics. This site is an almost endless amount of useful information to help Lodges bring in new Members, retain Members, and market their Lodges correctly to their Members and the Community! Click the link below to learn more!

Cybersecurity Best Practices for Lodge Officers & Members

Prepared by the Massachusetts Elks Association Media Committee

Introduction

As our Lodges continue to embrace technology for communications, financial transactions, and membership management, the importance of protecting sensitive information has never been greater. Cybersecurity threats—such as phishing scams, identity theft, and ransomware—pose real risks to individuals and organizations alike.

The Massachusetts Elks Association is committed to helping Lodge Officers and Members safeguard their information and maintain secure practices online. By following proven cybersecurity best practices, Lodges can minimize risks, protect personal and financial data, and ensure that our communities remain strong and secure.

Cybersecurity Best Practices

1. Strong Passwords & Authentication

• Use unique, complex passwords with a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols.

• Change passwords regularly and avoid reusing them across accounts.

• Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) whenever possible for an extra layer of security.

2. Email & Communication Safety

• Be cautious of unexpected emails or text messages asking for personal information or payment.

• Do not click suspicious links or open attachments from unknown senders.

• Verify requests for sensitive information by calling the requester directly.

3. Device & Network Security

• Keep computers, tablets, and smartphones updated with the latest software and security patches.

• Install reputable antivirus and anti-malware protection.

• Avoid using public Wi-Fi for Lodge business; if necessary, use a secure VPN.

4. Financial Transaction Protection

• Only use secure, verified platforms for online payments or donations.

• Monitor Lodge and personal accounts regularly for unusual activity.

• Implement dual controls (two people verifying) for Lodge-related financial transactions.

5. Data Management & Privacy

• Store membership and Lodge information securely, with access limited to authorized officers.

• Regularly back up important files to secure locations.

• Shred or securely delete sensitive documents no longer needed.

6. Incident Awareness & Response

• Report suspected cyber incidents immediately to Lodge leadership.

• If financial fraud is suspected, notify the bank and local authorities promptly.

• Have a simple action plan in place to respond to cybersecurity issues.

7. Education & Awareness

• Share cybersecurity updates and reminders at Lodge meetings.

• Encourage members to attend awareness sessions or review best practice resources.

• Foster a culture where members feel comfortable asking questions about suspicious activity.

Conclusion

By working together and adopting these best practices, Lodge Officers and Members can strengthen our defenses against cyber threats. Cybersecurity is not just about technology—it’s about vigilance, communication, and protecting the values and trust that define the Elks.

The Massachusetts Elks Association recommends all Lodges make cybersecurity a regular part of their operations, ensuring our communities remain safe, connected, and resilient.