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– Be cautious about sharing personal information online. Change your privacy settings and avoid using location features.

– Maintain software applications and operating systems.

– Use upper and lower case letters, numbers, and special characters to create strong passwords. Use a password manager and two verification methods.

– Be on the lookout for suspicious activity such as requests for immediate action, offers that appear too good to be true, or requests personal information. Consider your options before you click. When in doubt, do not click.

– Use a secure Internet connection and Wi-Fi network to protect your home and/or business, and change your passwords on a regular basis.

– Never share PINs or passwords. When possible, use biometric scanning devices (e.g. fingerprint scanner or facial recognition).

– Review your account statements and credit reports on a regular basis.

– Exercise caution when disclosing personal financial information such as your bank account number, Social Security number, or credit card number. Personal information should only be shared on secure websites that begin with https://. Sites with invalid certificates should not be used. Use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to make your connection more secure.

– To prevent threats, use antivirus and anti-malware software, as well as firewalls.

– Regularly backup your files in an encrypted file or encrypted file storage device.

– Do not click on links in texts or emails from strangers. Scammers can create bogus website links.

– Keep in mind that the government will not contact you via phone, text, or social media if you owe money.

– Keep in mind that scammers may call with work-from-home opportunities, debt consolidation offers, and student loan repayment plans to prey on your financial fears.