Technology has helped make the world more accessible than ever before. Unfortunately, that also includes the fraudsters. Here are a few steps that you can take to help further secure your financial information from potential fraud.
SET ALERTS
In the home banking system, set up your account to alert you if there is suspicious activity on your account. You can set a limit on your purchases and you will be alerted of anything that is over that amount. These alerts can be sent via text message or email, so make sure all of your contact information is updated and accurate.
PUBLIC WI-FI
Although free Wi-Fi is great when you’re out running errands, it can also be a tool for potential fraudsters. It’s fairly easy for hackers to intercept your online activities when you are using public Wi-Fi. To combat this, avoid making purchases, online banking, or using other password protected accounts outside of a trusted, password protected Wi-Fi.
AVOID SHARING
Never give out your personal information over the phone, on social media, or through email. Even if the number on your caller ID appears to be legitimate, it’s best to hang up and call back yourself because hackers have the ability to spoof numbers.
MINIMIZE WALLET
While there are some items in a wallet that you always need, such as ID, it’s not necessary to take all 3 credit cards to the grocery store. The less you take with you, the less you have the potential of losing or having stolen. Never carry your social security card or birth certificate around with you. These should be kept in a secured location in order to protect your private information.
ALERT IMMEDIATELY
If you have been the victim of fraud or your card is lost or stolen, make sure to call and cancel the card as soon as possible. Most credit card companies have a 24 hour automated line for reporting a lost or stolen card. Once a card is canceled, you no longer have liability for charges you didn’t make. For Cyprus VISAs, call (801) 260-7600 option 0. After business hours, call 888.526.0404 (Available 24 hours).
