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Always Protect Your Financial Information
How you can help to avoid online scams:
- Keep Software Updated — Install operating system, browser, and application updates promptly to patch security vulnerabilities.
- Use Strong, Unique Passwords — Avoid reusing passwords and consider using a trusted password manager.
- Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) — Add an extra layer of protection beyond your password.
- Use Antivirus & Firewall Protection — Keep security software and your computer’s firewall enabled and updated.
- Watch for Phishing Attempts — Be cautious with unexpected emails, attachments, links, and requests for personal information.
- Use Secure Wi-Fi — Avoid accessing sensitive accounts on unsecured public Wi-Fi. Secure your home network with a strong password.
- Back Up Important Files — Maintain regular backups so your information can be recovered after ransomware, hardware failure, or other problems.
- Lock Your Computer — Require a password, PIN, or biometric authentication whenever you step away.
- Download With Caution — Only download software and files from trusted sources.
- Think Before You Click — If a link, pop-up, attachment, or message looks suspicious, don’t click it.
Is your computer system compromised?
If you notice these warning signs, stop using the affected system for sensitive activities and contact a local I.T. professional immediately.
- Unusually Slow Performance — Your computer suddenly becomes much slower than normal without an obvious reason.
- Frequent Crashes or Freezes — Programs close unexpectedly, the system freezes, or the computer restarts on its own.
- Unexpected Pop-Ups — Unusual advertisements, warnings, or messages appear frequently.
- Unknown Programs or Apps — Software appears that you don't remember installing.
- Browser Changes — Your homepage, search engine, extensions, or browser settings change without your permission.
- Unusual Network Activity — Internet or network activity occurs even when you're not actively using the computer.
- Disabled Security Tools — Antivirus software, firewalls, or security settings are unexpectedly turned off or cannot be opened.
- Unauthorized Account Activity — You notice unfamiliar logins, password changes, emails, transactions, or other activity.
- Files Are Missing or Changed — Files are unexpectedly deleted, renamed, encrypted, or become inaccessible.
- Unexpected Password Prompts — You're repeatedly asked to enter credentials or sensitive information when you normally wouldn't be.
- Messages Sent Without Your Knowledge — Emails or messages are sent from your accounts that you didn't create.
- Unusual Error Messages — New or persistent system warnings and errors begin appearing.
- Camera or Microphone Activates Unexpectedly — Indicator lights or permissions activate when you're not using those features.
- Loss of Access — You suddenly can't log in to an account or computer using your normal credentials.
- Security Alerts — You receive legitimate notifications about suspicious logins, malware, or unauthorized activity.
Stay alert to ongoing fraud and scams to protect yourself, friends and family members.
Below are the major credit reporting agencies:
For general questions: 888-548-7878
To place a fraud alert: 866-349-5191
For general questions or to place a fraud alert:
888-397-3742
For general questions: 800-916-8800
To place a fraud alert: 800-680-7289
Get your annual free credit report here:
Call 877-322-8228 or visit www.annualcreditreport.com