Don’t let yourself get bogged down in purchases and lose track of your wallet. Know where your credit and debit cards are at all times and cover keypads when entering PIN numbers at registers or ATMs.
Phishing emails are common ways for hackers to get your personal information. With the increase of shipping during the holidays, one phishing scam involves scammers pretending to be customer service personnel from shipping companies, such as FedEx or UPS, and sending emails with links to package tracking information. Generally, these links are to scammers’ websites prompting users for personal information. Or, they install viruses or malware on computers to steal information, such as Social Security, bank or credit card numbers.
E-cards are a popular and inexpensive way to deliver season’s greetings to loved ones. In another phishing scam, holiday e-cards are sent to recipients with hyperlinks and instructions to click on them to view cards. Again, these links install malicious software to steal passwords and other sensitive information.
Your BBB advises you to avoid clicking links or opening attachments to emails until you’ve confirmed they’re legitimate. Go directly to the shipper’s Web site or contact the company via telephone to confirm whether there’s a shipping problem with your package.
You should beware of e-card notifications with spelling and grammatical mistakes. Also, don’t click on the link if you don’t recognize the sender’s name. And, make sure your computer is updated with antivirus and anti-spyware software and a secure firewall.
Take precautions this holiday season to ensure your identity is protected. And, contact your BBB for more tips to keep your money and identity safe by visiting www.bbb.org or calling (937) 222-5825 or (800) 776-5301.
John North is president and CEO of the Better Business Bureau.
About the Author