adopting a proactive approach. Here’ s what you need to do:
Strengthen your passwords. A weak password is like leaving your front door open to hackers. Use these best practices:
• Create unique, complex passwords for each account.
• Use passphrases instead of single words( e. g., Pomegranate! MoonDance # 92).
• Never use obvious information like your pet’ s name or birth year.
• Consider a password manager to store your passwords securely.
Enable multifactor authentication( MFA). Even if someone steals your password, MFA adds an extra layer of security. This often requires a code sent to your phone or email before you can log in.
Think before you click. Many cyberattacks happen because someone clicks on a malicious link. Avoid:
• Clicking on links in emails or text messages from unknown senders.
• Downloading attachments from unverified sources.
• Visiting unsecured websites. Be sure the URL begins with“ https” versus“ http” and it has a lock icon.
Keep your software updated. Cybercriminals take advantage of outdated software to hack into your system. Keep your:
• Operating system and web browser updated.
• Antivirus software running and up-to-date.
• Apps updated to the latest versions.
Be cautious with public Wi-Fi. Public Wi-Fi at places like airports, coffee shops, and hotels is a hacker’ s playground. If you must use it:
• Avoid accessing sensitive accounts like online banking.
• Use a virtual private network( VPN) to encrypt your connection.
• Use your phone’ s mobile hot spot instead if possible.
Watch out for social media tricks. Hackers don’ t just send emails— they also use social media. Protect yourself by:
• Not clicking links in random direct messages.
• Not accepting friend requests from strangers.
• Skipping viral quizzes that ask for personal details( e. g.,“ What was your first car?”, which is a common security question).
Safeguard your financial information. Your bank accounts are gold mines for scammers. Keep them secure by:
• Setting up account alerts for suspicious activity.
• Using a dedicated credit card for online purchases instead of a debit card.
• Avoiding saving card details on shopping sites.
Stay wary of phone scams. Scammers use urgency and fear tactics over the phone. Protect yourself by:
• Not answering calls from unknown numbers.
• Hanging up on robocalls immediately.
• Never giving out personal info unless you initiated the call.
Monitor your accounts and credit. Even with strong security, breaches can still happen. Stay vigilant by:
• Checking bank and credit card statements regularly.
• Reviewing your credit report( free at annualcreditreport. com).
• Watching your Social Security benefits account for suspicious activity.
Stay educated and aware. Cybercriminals are always evolving, and so should your defenses. Keep up by:
• Following trusted cybersecurity sources like the Federal Trade Commission.
• Taking free online security awareness courses.
• Educating family members, especially older relatives who may be more vulnerable.
What to Do If You Get Scammed
Even with precautions, anyone can become a victim. If you suspect you’ ve been scammed, you should:
• Change your passwords immediately.
• Contact your bank or credit card provider.
• Report the scam to the following authorities: FTC( reportfraud. ftc. gov), FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center( ic3. gov), and Identity Theft Assistance( identitytheft. gov).
• Freeze your credit if your Social Security number was compromised.
• Monitor your accounts for further fraud.
Ande Frazier, CFP ®, CLU, ChFC, RICP, BFA™, ChSNC, CDFA ®, is an expert in behavioral finance and the author of Fin( anci) ally Free: 11 Conversations To Have With Yourself About Life, Money, and Worth. In addition to being a recognized thought leader, author, and speaker, she also serves as a partner at Peachtree Planning Corporation. To learn more, visit andefrazier. com. nwgeorgialiving. com | 13