Protect Your Money: Stay Informed, Stay Secure
1. Recognize Fraudulent Emails
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Be cautious of unexpected emails requesting personal or financial information.
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Check the sender's email address and verify the legitimacy of the message.
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Avoid clicking on links or downloading attachments from unknown sources.
2. Strengthen Your Passwords
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Create strong, unique passwords for your online banking and other accounts.
- Use a combination of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols.
- Update your passwords regularly and avoid using easily guessable information.
3. Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
- Enable 2FA whenever possible to add an extra layer of security - this ensures that even if your password is compromised, an additional verification step is required.
4. Monitor Your Accounts
- Regularly review your account statements for any unauthorized transactions.
- Set up account alerts to receive notifications for specific activities, such as large withdrawals or low balances.
5. Be Wary of Spoofing (Phone Scams)
- Be skeptical of unsolicited phone calls requesting personal or financial information.
- Do not share sensitive information over the phone unless you initiate the call to a trusted number.
6. Keep Software Updated
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Regularly update your operating system, antivirus software, and other applications.
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Software updates often include security patches to protect against the latest threats.
7. Secure Your Devices
- Use strong PINs or passwords on your mobile devices.
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Enable biometric authentication features, such as fingerprint or facial recognition, for added security.
8, Use QR codes with caution
- When using a physical QR code, make sure the code has not been tampered with.
- Check the URL to make sure it is the intended site and looks authentic - be aware of typos and similar looking URLs.
- Practice caution when entering login, personal or financial information to a site navigated to from a QR code.
9. Buying gift cards? Stay alert!
- When buying gift cards, make sure the card is free from any signs of tampering.
10. Educate Yourself
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Stay informed about the latest scams and fraud tactics.
- Come back to this page regularly for updates on common scams and how to avoid them.
Take Action
Stay Informed
External fraud prevention resources
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC)
Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3)
Additional resources
#BanksNeverAskThat National Anti-Phishing Campaign