The Power of Knowledge to Fight Fraud and Scams
Fraudsters can be found all around, and the more informed you are, the better safeguarded you will be against potential scams.
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Create Strong Passwords: Pick a strong password that includes a combination of lowercase and uppercase letters, numbers & symbols. Passwords should be updated every 90 days. Avoid repeats.
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What is Spoofing: Do not answer unsolicited phone calls with unknown displaying on caller ID and “robocalls.” Be aware that a scammer can display a known company on caller ID – this is called spoofing.
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Watch Email Attachments: Never open or click links or attachments from unsolicited messages. Flag as a Spam in your email client and delete the message immediately.
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Social Media Safety: Make sure that your account is set to private, don’t share too many details, only connect with people you know and trust. Don’t fall for the bait – be aware of social phishing ads and posts.
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Sign up for Account Alerts: Set up notifications to receive alerts when a transaction above a certain dollar amount is made or whenever money is withdrawn from your account.
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Avoid Public Wi-Fi and Computers: A public network means anyone can access your accounts or information even if they are password protected. Try to stay away from using unsecured public networks.
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Protect Your Devices: Always use strong passwords. Use security software such as anti virus protection and firewalls. Keep your operating system and browsers up to date since these updates can fix security issues.
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What is Vishing: A type of fraud where scammers send voice messages pretending to be financial service reps or other reputable companies in order to gain access to personal information from their targets.
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Don’t Feel Pressured: Pause and think before you click, download, or share any of your information with anyone offering you something. Verify the company or person from a separate source before you take the next steps.
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Control App Access: Only download or install apps that come from the official app store. Research the developer and know what the app will have access to before installing.
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Protect Your Cards: Never save your debit or credit card information online. Always remember to log out if you are signed into any of your personal or financial accounts.
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Pay Yourself Scam: Scammers will send a text or email that looks like a fraud alert from your financial institution asking about an authorized transaction. Be aware, a financial will never call you and ask you to send money to yourself.
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Update Browsers & Apps: Always make sure you are using the latest version of your Internet browsers and apps when accessing your personal information.
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Monitor Account Activity: Track your account activity regularly. Contact your financial institution if you suspect anything irregular.
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Home Network Security: Make sure your personal Wi-Fi network is set to private and update any preset passwords to strong unique passwords.
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