Ten Steps to Protect Your Accounts from Cyber Criminals
Scams are on the rise, so it is more important than ever to be aware, stay vigilant, and take extra steps to protect your accounts. Consider taking the ten actions below to safeguard you and your loved ones from falling victim to cybercrime:
Do not click on links in emails and texts. Online financial criminals try to make their emails or texts look legitimate. Be skeptical of all emails, texts, and any included links and attachments unless you are 100% certain that the email or text is legitimate.
Freeze your credit. Freezing your credit reports prevents criminals from taking out credit cards or loans in your name.
Use two-step verification. This security feature requires that you enter a unique security code whenever you access your accounts online, making it more difficult for someone to gain access to your information.
Secure your passwords. Using password manager software makes it easier to manage your login information across websites—and helps you create strong and unique passwords. When you use the same password across multiple websites, you increase your risk if one of the websites or applications becomes compromised or suffers a breach.
Use biometrics where available. If your smartphone or PC offers biometric security options like a fingerprint reader or voice or facial recognition, we recommend using those features. They add another unique layer of security that could stop financial criminals in their tracks.
Verbally verify disbursements. Ensure that you have enough information or documentation, so you know where you’re sending your money. If you receive an email instructing you to transfer money, verify the instructions by calling the sender at a phone number you’ve used to contact them previously, then verbally verify the instructions. Do not call any new phone numbers provided in the email.
Stay current on the latest scams. Keep up to date on the latest scam tactics so that you can protect yourself from falling victim. Visit these sites for information: www.fbi.gov/scams-and-safety and www.consumer.ftc.gov/features/scam-alerts
Set up account alerts. Monitor your financial accounts by setting up alerts to warn you when any important changes are applied to your account.
Exercise vigilance with your online presence. Limit what you share on social media and set privacy and security settings on websites and applications to safeguard your information.
Monitor account activity regularly. Make a habit of reviewing your financial account statements and online activity. Confirm that you recognize all the transactions listed—and report any that you don’t.