Technology has brought enormous benefits to modern life, but these advancements also create significant risks. Criminals continue to exploit new technologies to push scams and fraud on unsuspecting consumers. Even people who are very comfortable with technology can occasionally fall victim to these tactics.
Here are a few basic steps that can help safeguard you and your family:
Choose passwords that are unrelated to personal information. A password manager is an excellent tool for creating and storing strong passwords.
Install antivirus software and firewalls on personal computers, and password-protect sensitive files such as tax returns.
Avoid using links in emails or text messages to access banks, brokerages, or online retailers. Instead, go directly to the official website or app when logging in.
Review and securely store bank, credit card, and investment account statements, along with important receipts and records.
Shred discarded financial and personal documents, including credit card offers, using a crosscut shredder.
Review privacy policies from financial institutions and opt out of unnecessary sharing of personal information with third parties whenever possible.
Place a fraud alert on your credit reports and request free annual credit reports to monitor for suspicious activity.
Review your Social Security statement periodically to verify no unauthorized claims or earnings activity appear.
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One effective defense against fraud is simply slowing down and asking questions.
We can be an effective defense if something feels suspicious. Does an email seem fishy? Did you get a text message that makes you nervous? Have you received a bill for a product or service that you don’t remember buying?
If something confuses you, creates anxiety, or simply feels “off,” don’t hesitate to reach out. There is no embarrassment in being cautious.
One especially important warning sign is urgency. Very few legitimate situations require immediate payment or disclosure of sensitive personal information.
When in doubt, give us a shout.
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