With the use of online banking and apps on our mobile devices, the cases of fraud have heightened more than ever before. It is dire that consumers pay attention to their accounts in order to protect fraud and save themselves from oncoming damage. The methods of deception have changed throughout the years, but the desired results have not. It is up to each individual to remain vigilant and safe guard themselves from potential attacks. We outline some things you should be doing to keep yourself safe and protected.
The Dangers of Online Fraud
The simplest things like using public Wi-Fi in a shopping center or not monitoring online purchases can be grounds for a disaster. It is important to remain attentive when doing these things because of the way technology has made stealing people’s information so conveniently accessible. Unfortunately, the most drastic measures must be taken to protect your name and your money.
When setting up online banking, picking exclusive passwords is an effective way in protecting yourself against fraud. In this era where most people don’t even have to enter a bank to see their finances, it is highly significant to have the best online security.
Emails can get hacked as well. Changing your password constantly is a great way in saving yourself from the dangers of fraud. It provides as protection as well as gives you peace of mind. Securing your email and your technological devices can be an exceptionally efficient way to stop hackers and scammers from stealing your funds.
Like most things there are pros and cons. As long as there are ways to get scammed, there will always be ways to protect yourself from it. Online pop up blockers and anti-virus software can always be downloaded as ways to prevent fraud.
Always be wary of where you are putting in your personal information such as, passwords, account numbers and even personal identification numbers. If negligent, they can be tracked and fraud will be likely to occur.
Who You Can Trust With Your Money
Meeting with financial advisors to know exactly how your money is being handled is a good way to have a handle on your personal finances. One should always take initiative to protect themselves against fraud, but having someone who is trained in the matter to help is always a great plus.
Even with having an advisor, fraud can still occur. Being mindful of what your advisor says is important, but it is always important to remain in control of your life. Do not be afraid to ask about your financial progression because after all, it is your money.
Financial advisors themselves often can be scammers. It is highly significant to do research to protect your assets. A common mistake people can make is putting their trust into an advisor.
It is important to not be fooled or intimidated by certain terminology used. Extensive research can grow tiresome but is well worth it in fighting against fraud and suspicious activities.
Be Alert
Having a financial advisor and changing passwords are efficient ways to protect yourself against fraud. Even with these precautions, you can still have fraud committed against you. As it is your name and your account, you must always have your eyes open to the cruelties associated with fraud.
Understand how your money is being spent and have clear visuals of what your money looks like. Be attentive and knowledgeable to your money. This isn’t only good to know from the advisors perspective but from your financial institution, and most importantly—your own.
Unfortunately, elderly people tend to fall ignorant to the new ways to get scammed out of their money. Even prior to mobile devices and online banking, scammers used telephone calls as a way to track down information. Now there are new and simpler ways to receive data.
Many times the elderly are not up to date with latest technologies and therefore are blind to what can be done to their accounts. They are likely to be subjected to fraud because of their lack of access to their accounts. They would not even know to protect themselves because they had no knowledge to the new ways.
Modern day technology allows for you to be able to check your account all hours of the day. An elderly person, however, might not be on a mobile device to do so. For them, it is especially critical to be protected, since they may have technological barriers.
But just because elderly people may be more prone doesn’t mean they are limited to fraud. It is something anyone can go through if they aren’t cautious. No one is exempt from fraud but everyone has a chance to fight against it.
Nazaire & Co
With over 25 years in business, Nazaire & Co has helped businesses and individuals in all situations. If you think you have been a victim of a scam or fraud, reach out to us today it’s not too late. We are here to guide you through the steps to recover any lost assets and get your life back on track.
