Stay Safe: Protect Yourself from Scams
To safeguard your personal and financial information, always be cautious of unsolicited requests—whether by phone, email, or text. When in doubt, verify payment requests by contacting the organization directly through trusted channels. Avoid clicking suspicious links or providing information in response to unexpected communications. Regularly monitor your accounts, check your credit report, and update privacy settings on social media.
🔒 Protecting Your Information
• Be cautious online. Never share sensitive information—such as your Social Security number, bank details, or passwords—unless you’re certain the website is secure.
• Limit social media exposure. Only connect with people you know and trust. Avoid oversharing personal information like your location, workplace, or birthday.
• Watch for subtle scams. Scammers often mimic real companies with small spelling errors or fake logos. Be skeptical of unfamiliar links and sites.
• Shred documents. Properly destroy documents containing personal details before discarding them.
• Update your privacy settings. Use built-in privacy tools on social media to control who can see your information.
🛡️ Protecting Your Accounts
• Monitor accounts regularly. Review your bank and credit card statements for suspicious activity.
• Check your credit report. Request a free report annually from Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion to catch any unauthorized changes.
• Freeze your credit if needed. This prevents new accounts from being opened in your name if identity theft is suspected.
• Use strong, unique passwords. Enable two-factor authentication wherever possible.
• Keep your devices secure. Install reputable antivirus and firewall software and keep everything up to date.
🚫 Avoiding Scams
• Be skeptical of urgency. Scammers often create a false sense of urgency to trick you into acting quickly. Legitimate companies will never rush you into a decision.
• Don’t send money to strangers. Never transfer funds or send gift cards or cryptocurrency to someone you don’t know personally.
• Avoid suspicious links. If a message seems off—even from a known company—don’t click links or download attachments. Contact them directly via their official website or phone number.
• Verify legitimacy. If something feels wrong, double-check it by reaching out to the company or organization directly.
• Know the red flags. Common scams include fake emergencies, phony investment opportunities, and false prize winnings.
• Report suspicious activity. Don’t hesitate to contact the authorities if you suspect a scam.
This information is provided for general awareness only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. We are not responsible for actions taken based on this content.