Have you taken steps to protect your personal information lately? When it comes to stopping fraud and identity theft, staying informed and alert is crucial. These three tools will help keep your personal information safe and decrease your chances of becoming a fraud victim.
Tool #1: A strong, unique password
Your password is the first line of defense between your personal information and someone trying to steal it. Using the same password across multiple accounts may be convenient, but it also increases your risk. If one account is compromised in a data breach, any account using that same password now has a great chance of being compromised as well.
Instead, create a unique password for every account, including banking, social media, email and other logins. Longer passwords or passphrases that combine multiple unrelated words are generally more secure and easier to remember than short, complex passwords. If keeping track of multiple passwords feels overwhelming, a reputable password manager can help.
Tool #2: Multifactor authentication
Even the strongest password isn’t guaranteed to keep fraudsters out. That’s where multifactor authentication (MFA) comes in. MFA adds additional layers of verification before you can access an account by combining security factors like something you know (a password), something you have (a code sent to your phone) and something you are (a fingerprint or face scan).
While it may add a few extra moments to the login process, the additional layer of protection can make a significant difference. If someone manages to steal your password, MFA helps prevent them from accessing your account without additional verification.
Tool #3: A healthy sense of skepticism
Not every fraud prevention tool is technology-based. One of the most effective ways to protect yourself is through a healthy sense of skepticism. Pause before responding to unexpected requests and ask yourself, “How do I know this person is who they say they are?” Scammers often rely on urgency or fear to convince people to act quickly without thinking.
If you receive an unexpected email, text message or phone call asking you to click a link, scan a QR code, provide personal information or send money, take a moment to verify that the request is legitimate. When in doubt, contact the person or company directly using a phone number or website you know is authentic rather than using the contact information provided in the message.
Build your toolbox before you need it!
Fraud prevention isn’t about finding one perfect solution. It’s about using several good habits together to create stronger protection. The more prepared you are before a scam occurs, the better equipped you’ll be to protect your financial and personal information.
Visit MidFirst’s fraud resource page for more resources and best practices.
