In today’s digital world, financial fraud is more common than ever. Whether it’s phishing scams or hackers trying to access your personal information, protecting your finances is crucial. Thankfully, there are simple steps you can take to safeguard yourself and your money. Here are three tips to help you avoid falling victim to fraud and keep your financial information secure. Read to the end to see a special workshop offered by Markham Public Library on fraud prevention.
- Enable Two-Factor Authentication
The first line of defense against fraud is a strong password. That’s a given. In addition to a password that’s not your birthdays with 1234 at the back, enable two-factor authentication (2FA) wherever possible. Most financial institutions and apps have this option. This extra layer of security requires you to verify your identity through a second method, like a code sent to your phone via text, emails or phone calls, making it much harder for fraudsters to gain access to your accounts.
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- Be Cautious with Links in Emails
Hackers often try to trick you into clicking phishing links by sending you very real-looking emails. Whether it is emails from your banks, trusted organizations, or notifications, always be cautious while checking your emails. Here are two big tips on what you need to look out for to detect phishing emails: 1) sending from a fake email address, 2) unrecognized senders containing attachments and links that ask you to open it. If something feels off or too good to be true, trust your instincts and report emails as phishing. Before taking any action, always verify the source by contacting the organization directly through official channels.
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- Be Careful with Public Wi-Fi
Public Wi-Fi networks may seem convenient, but they can be a goldmine for fraudsters. These networks are often unsecured, meaning hackers can intercept your data if you access sensitive information, like your bank account. Avoid conducting financial transactions or logging into personal accounts while connected to public Wi-Fi.
Conclusion
Staying ahead of financial fraud is all about being proactive. By enabling two-factor authentication (2FA), staying cautious of unsolicited communication, and protecting your data on public Wi-Fi, you can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to scams. Take these simple steps today and keep your finances secure from fraudsters.
On March 27, from 6:00 - 7:00 PM, the Ontario Securities Commission will be coming to Angus Glen Library to talk about prevention tips against fraud and ID theft in today’s digital age. Spots are limited, sign up now - https://markham.bibliocommons.com/events/6765ca5ccb66923d0037845a
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