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As the new year approaches, it’s a great time to set resolutions that enhance your financial security. With cybercrime and identity theft on the rise, protecting yourself from fraud should be a top priority. Below are actionable resolutions to keep your personal and financial information safe throughout the year.
Strengthen Your Passwords
Passwords are your first line of defense against fraud. Resolve to:
• Use unique passwords for each account, including a mix
of upper and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols.
• Consider using a password manager to securely
generate and store passwords.
• Enable multi-factor authentication, which requires a
second verification step such as a code sent to your
phone or email, wherever possible.
Monitor Your Accounts Regularly
Vigilance is key to catching fraudulent activity early. Make it a habit to:
• Check bank and credit card accounts weekly for unusual
transactions.
• Sign up for alerts that notify you of large or suspicious
purchases.
• Review your credit reports annually for unauthorized
activity.
Be Wary of Phishing Scams
Cybercriminals often use emails, texts, or calls to trick you into sharing sensitive information. To avoid phishing:
• Verify the sender before clicking on links or downloading
attachments.
• Be cautious of urgent or fear-based messages asking for
personal details.
• Avoid sharing private information over the phone unless
you initiated the call.
Secure Your Devices
Your smartphone and computer are gateways to your personal data. Protect them by:
• Installing antivirus software and keeping it updated.
• Using a secure Wi-Fi network and avoiding public Wi-Fi
for financial transactions.
• Keeping your operating systems and apps updated with
the latest security patches.
Use Secure Payment Methods
When shopping online or in person:
• Opt for "tap and pay" over "swiping" for enhanced fraud
protection.
• Use digital wallets, like Apple Pay or Google Pay, which
encrypt your payment information.
• Avoid saving payment details on websites unless
absolutely necessary.
Educate Yourself About Scams
Fraudsters are constantly evolving their tactics. Stay informed about the latest scams by:
• Following news from trusted financial institutions or
government agencies.
• Attending webinars or reading articles about fraud
prevention.
• Teaching family members, especially children and
seniors, about common scams.
Safeguard Physical Documents
Not all fraud happens online. Protect your sensitive physical documents by:
• Shredding old statements, credit card offers, and
documents with personal information.
• Storing important paperwork, like social security cards
and passports, in a secure place.
• Opting for e-statements to minimize your paper trail.
While these resolutions can significantly reduce your risk of fraud, they’re not one-time fixes. By making fraud prevention a consistent habit, you can enjoy peace of mind and keep your financial health intact all year long.
For additional information about online scams and cybersecurity visit our website: https://www.myunionstate.bank/services/mobile-and-online-banking/online-security-tips
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