Educational Security Guide rev. 5/26
ID Theft – Protect Yourself
Tips
- Add your number to the Do Not Call Registry: www.donotcall.gov or 1‑888‑382‑1222.
- Review credit card and bank statements immediately for unauthorized transactions.
Quarterly
- Place a fraud alert every 90 days via Equifax (1‑800‑525‑6285).
Annually
- Get a free credit report at www.annualcreditreport.com.
- Check your Social Security statement at www.ssa.gov/mystatement.
Every 5 Years
- Opt out of pre-screened credit offers: www.optoutprescreen.com.
Fraud Summary
Identity theft occurs when someone uses your personal information (name, SSN, credit card, etc.) without permission to commit fraud.
Common Methods
- Stealing: Wallets, purses, or financial mail.
- Dumpster Diving: Searching trash for personal info.
- Change of Address: Redirecting your mail.
Phishing & Skimming
- Phishing: Fake emails directing you to spoof websites.
- Skimming: Devices copying card data.
Account Monitoring
Check transactions regularly through online banking.
Protect Personal Information
- Do not carry your Social Security card.
- Avoid printing sensitive info on checks.
- Shred documents containing financial data.
- Keep passwords and PINs confidential.
Computer Security
- Update OS, browser, antivirus, and antispyware software.
- Change passwords regularly.
- Download only from trusted sources.
- Do not click links in spam emails.
Advanced Computer Protection
- Install a personal firewall.
- Avoid entering personal info on unsecured websites.
Mail & Phone Fraud
Vishing
- Fake messages asking you to call and provide info.
- Scammers may already know some personal details.
Smishing
- Fraudulent text messages requesting personal info.
- May install malware or steal card details.
Scams to Watch For
Lottery / Sweepstakes
- You are told you won a prize you never entered for.
- Scammer asks for payment to claim it.
Check Overpayment
- Fake payment larger than agreed price.
- Victim asked to wire back difference.
Mailbox Tips
- Deposit outgoing mail at the post office.
- Retrieve mail promptly.
- Use a locked mailbox or PO Box.
- Request mail holds when away.
Phone Safety
- Never give personal info unless you initiated the call.
- Hang up if unsure and call official numbers.
Phishing & Spoofing
Phishing Process
- Email asks you to click a link.
- Redirects to fake site.
- Requests sensitive information.
Avoid Spoofed Websites
Always manually type official URLs instead of clicking email links.
Email Protection Tips
- Do not click links or fill forms in emails.
- Be cautious with attachments.
- Watch for poor grammar or suspicious senders.
- If it seems too good to be true, it likely is.
Bank Error Message Scam
- Fake maintenance emails install malware.
- Malware steals login credentials.
Email Policy
- Legitimate companies will not request sensitive info via email.
- Do not send personal info through unsecured email.