Protect Yourself From Fraud
While we strive to keep your information and transactions secure, there are also actions you can take. Here’s a simple, prioritized list of the most important actions you can take to protect your personal and financial information:
Security Actions You Can Take
1. Secure Your Accounts
- Use Strong and Unique Passwords: Create passwords with a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols that only you understand. Avoid using personal information like your name or birthdate.
- Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): MFA adds an extra layer of security, such as sending a code to your phone. Think of it as a second lock on your digital door.
- Monitor Account Activity Regularly: Check your bank and credit card statements for unusual transactions. Report anything suspicious immediately.
- Use a Password Manager: A password manager stores all your passwords securely, so you don’t have to remember them. You only need one strong "master" password.
2. Safeguard Personal Information
- Shred Sensitive Documents: Shred old account statements, credit card offers, and receipts before disposing of them.
- Store Important Documents Securely: Keep your Social Security card, passport, and other IDs in a safe place at home, not in your wallet.
- Be Cautious Sharing Information: Only provide personal or financial details to trusted, verified individuals or companies.
3. Protect Your Devices
- Install Antivirus Software: Keep it updated to detect and block malware (harmful software designed to steal your information).
- Keep Software Updated: Regular updates for your computer, phone, and web browser fix security issues and prevent hacking.
- Use a Firewall: A firewall acts like a digital security guard for your internet connection, blocking unauthorized access.
- Password-Protect Devices: Lock your phone, laptop, or tablet when not in use to prevent unauthorized access.
4. Avoid Scams and Phishing
- Recognize Phishing: Phishing is when scammers pretend to be someone you trust, like your bank, to trick you into sharing personal information. If an email or message asks for sensitive information or looks suspicious, don’t click any links.
Example: A fake email may claim, “Your account is locked. Click here to fix it.” Always go directly to the official website instead of clicking. - Beware of SMiShing (Text Scams): Scammers may send texts urging urgent action, such as updating account details. Treat them as suspicious and verify the sender independently.
- Think Before You Click: Hover over links to see where they lead. If it looks unfamiliar or odd, don’t click.
5. Be Cautious Online
- Shop on Secure Websites: Look for "https" in the web address and a padlock icon. This means your information is encrypted during the transaction.
- Avoid Public Wi-Fi for Financial Transactions: Public networks can expose your data to hackers. Use a secure network instead.
- Log Out of Secure Websites: Always click “Log Out” after using a financial or sensitive website, even on your personal devices.
6. Check and Protect Your Credit
- Monitor Your Credit Report: Review your credit report yearly at annualcreditreport.com for errors or unauthorized accounts.
- Report Fraudulent Activity: Contact credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, TransUnion) to place fraud alerts if needed.
What To Do If You Suspect Fraud
- Act Immediately:
- Contact us immediately at PenServPlanFraud@penserv.com if you suspect fraud. Also, let us know if you’ve been a victim of identity theft within the past 12 months.
- Change Your Passwords:
- Update your passwords for all accounts, especially email and banking. Use a password manager to help create and store strong passwords.
- Contact Credit Bureaus:
- Call Equifax (888-766-0008), Experian (888-397-3742), and TransUnion (800-916-8800) to monitor or freeze your credit if necessary.
Stay Vigilant
- Check your credit report yearly at www.annualcreditreport.com.
- Watch for unusual activity in your accounts and report it immediately.
- Learn more about protecting yourself online at OnGuard Online (Federal Trade Commission).
- Learn About Scams: Visit the FBI’s "Be Crime Smart" page or the Department of Labor’s tips on preventing cybercrime.
- Update Your Address: Notify us immediately if you move to ensure documents are sent securely.
By following these steps, you can safeguard your accounts and personal information. Remember, PenServ will never ask for your passwords or personal details through email, text, or phone. Stay alert and secure!
