Avoid Fraud
AVOID FRAUD AND SCAMS
It’s important to be aware of fraudsters and scammers taking advantage of individuals. Below are some tips to protect your personal information and finances.
- Never share your personal or financial information via email, text messages, or over the phone. This includes your financial institution’s username and/or password.
- Keep all your computer programs updated, especially the computer’s anti-virus/anti-malware software and operating system (i.e. Windows, Mac OSX, etc.).
- Employ unique, strong passwords for every critical online account, such as those for banking, financial investments and healthcare. Use a password manager to keep track of your passwords in a secure manner.
- Practice smart online shopping. Never use a debit card for online transactions as scammers may be able to empty your bank account before you have a chance to dispute the charges. Only shop with reputable businesses employing the proper security on their website (beginning with “https”). Browse directly on the online shopping site instead of clicking links that may have been manipulated to send you to a potentially fraudulent site.
- If you are sent any check for deposit, make sure it’s real. Never deposit a check from someone you don’t know. Learn how to spot fake check scams from the FTC at https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/articles/how-spot-avoid-and-report-fake-check-scams.
RECENT FRAUDS OR SCAMS