Tips, Tactics and Actions You Can Take to Help Keep Your Sensitive Information Safe
Scams, frauds and identity theft attempts are a sad part of modern life. But if you learn about the common tactics used in these scams, you can protect yourself from becoming a victim.
To learn about some of today’s more common scenarios – and how you should respond if you see them – simply read below:
Suspicious Email or “Phishing” Scams
- These appear via your inbox as emails you do not expect – although they could fraudulently claim to be from a trusted source – like your bank or financial advisor.
- Do NOT click any links or download attachments.
- Do NOT reply to the sender.
- Take a screenshot or forward the suspicious email to your financial advisor and/or a trusted IT support person.
- Delete the email from your inbox and trash folder.
- If you clicked a link or entered personal information, notify your bank and financial advisor immediately.
Suspicious Phone Call (Also Known as “Vishing”)
- Hang up immediately if someone claims to be a representative from your bank, your financial advisor, or an employee of a government agency asking for personal details.
- Do NOT give out Social Security numbers, account numbers, or passwords.
- Call your financial advisor or the official phone number of the institution to verify the call.
Suspicious Text Message (Also Known as “Smishing”)
- Do NOT click on links in unexpected text messages.
- Block the sender’s number.
- Report the message to your mobile provider by forwarding it to 7726 (SPAM).
Malware or Virus on Your Computer
- Disconnect from the internet immediately.
- Shut down your computer.
- Contact your financial advisor and/or a trusted IT support person.
- Do NOT attempt to log in to any online accounts until any viruses on your device have been removed.
Unauthorized Bank Transactions
- Call your bank immediately to report the fraudulent activity.
- Ask the bank to freeze your account temporarily.
- Inform your financial advisor.
- Change your online banking password from a different device that is secure.
Account Login Alert from an Unknown Location
- Do NOT ignore these alerts.
- Do NOT click on any links these messages may contain.
- Change your password immediately using a different device.
- Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on the account.
- Notify your financial advisor.
Social Media Account Hacked
- Change your social media password immediately.
- Log out of all devices in your account settings.
- Notify friends and family not to click suspicious links sent from your account.
- Enable two-factor authentication.
Identity Theft Concerns
- Contact your bank and credit card companies.
- Place a fraud alert with one of the three major credit bureaus (Experian, Equifax, TransUnion).
- Consider freezing your credit.
- File a report with the Federal Trade Commission (gov).
Ransomware Attack
- Disconnect your computer from the internet immediately.
- Do NOT pay the ransom.
- Contact IT support or law enforcement.
- Notify your financial advisor.
Always remember: Staying calm and acting quickly can greatly reduce the impact of a cyber-attack. Your financial advisor is here to help guide you through these steps and coordinate with the right professionals.
