Fraud Prevention Tips
Tips for keeping your information on lockdown.
Secure Information
Be sure to only share this information with a reliable and credible source.
Social Security Number (SSN)
Bank Account Numbers
Credit Card Information
Address
Full Name
Public Safety
Phone Calls or Texts
Avoid sharing secure information over the phone where others can hear you. You never know who may be paying attention.
When replying to text messages be sure you are texting a credible number.
Online
Avoid entering secure information online using public WIFI, such as logging into a bank account or filling out financial documents.
Routine Checks
Routinely check your bank and credit card statements. Scam artists have a tricky way of hacking your information without you realizing at first. If you do see an issue, contact your financial institution or credit card company immediately.
Emails
Keep an eye out for offers that seem too good to be true. Never open a link or download a PDF from a sender you are unfamiliar with. If an email link seems suspicious but you’re not sure, open your browser and go to the website directly.
Credit or Debit Cards
Shopping
Whether it’s online or in-store be sure you are shopping with reputable merchants. An extra precaution could be to use your credit card rather than your debit card. Majority of credit card companies have fraud protection plans and put zero accountability on the consumer.
Fraud Tips Blog
Common Fraud Words
Vishing
When a scammer is calling you directly, pretending to be someone they are not and asking for your information.
Phishing
When a scammer is sending you emails to try and collect your information. These include links or downloads that may install viruses to hack your devices or accounts.
Smishing
When a scammer is texting you as someone they are not to trick you into replying with you information or clicking a false link to enter your information.
Spear Phishing
A scammer with a direct target. They may already have some of your information and use this to try and trick you into thinking the call is credible.
Malware
A software that may be attached to link or downloadable file. This software is designed to cause damage to your devices.
Virus
A code that may be attached to a link or downloadable file that will change the way you computer operates. These can spread from one device to the next.
Did you know…
There were 3.2 million fraud reports filed in 2019.
-Source: Federal Trade Commission
