With the holiday season comes additional shopping both in-person and online. This can put you at an increased chance of fraud. In the past year, fraud has nearly doubled with imposter scams and online shopping fraud being the most common types. In this season of giving, here are a few tips to ensure you’re not giving yourself up to fraud.
1. Monitor your accounts
The easiest way to keep your finances safe is to keep an eye on your accounts.
Check your bank account once a day to monitor and verify transactions.
Turn your debit card off if you suspect fraud or if you lost your card
Use the tools available to you in mobile banking such as setting spending limits and turning banking alerts on.
2. Be safe when shopping online
You’re likely doing a lot of online shopping. While many sites offer secure payments and buyer protection, fraudsters will try to access your account where you likely have your card numbers stored.
Don’t use obvious passwords such as your birthday or anniversary, your mother’s maiden name or the last four digits of your Social Security number.
Never click on links sent in unsolicited emails. Instead, type the address into your internet browser or copy and paste the URL.
Don’t do your online shopping on public Wi-Fi as it not usually secure.
3. Protect your identity
Today’s fraudsters use social engineering to learn more about you. Keep your identity safe by:
Update your privacy settings on social media to limit what people you’re not friends with can see.
Make sure your phone has a password to protect sensitive information on it.
Keep your phone and computer operating systems up to date.
4. Watch for scams
Scams are common during the holiday season as fraudsters take advantage of people’s kindness.
Beware of emails that ask for account information and passwords. Avoid clicking links from unknown senders.
Phone scams featuring robo callers from credit card companies and Amazon are also common. Don’t provide your info over the phone.
Watch out for scam text messages that claim to be delivered by a company.
When it comes to avoiding fraud during the holiday season, prevention is key. Simply keeping an eye on your accounts and being careful when shopping online can help keep your finances safe.
If you believe your account has been compromised, contact Bremer customer support at 800-908-2265.