• Never give out sensitive personal information, such as a social security number or an account number, in an email.  Communication through email is convenient, but not always secure.
• Verify the identity of anyone who asks for personal information over the phone.  This information should be given out only when necessary, and when the requesting party is a known and trusted source.
• Enter personal information on secure web sites only.  This can be verified by looking for a “lock” icon in the bottom, right-hand corner of the web page, or by an https:// prefix before the web address.  Personal information shared over an insecure web site can and may be intercepted.
• Always log out of banking sites and close the browser window when finished, especially when using a workplace or public computer.
• Properly dispose of all mail, bills, bank statements and other personal files.  The recommended way of disposing of these items is to shred them.  Credit cards should be cut through the number horizontally and then vertically multiple times.
• Pay attention to credit card bills and bank statements.  Any unknown charges should be investigated immediately.  Cancel all unused credit accounts.
• Carry only a minimum number of cards, and never carry a social security card in a purse or wallet.
• Use caution when storing personal items at home, especially if there are other people living in, working at or visiting the house.
• Choose passwords carefully.  Review the following tips for creating a strong password:
• Do not use names, important dates, phone numbers, addresses or social security numbers as passwords.  These can be easily guessed by thieves.
• Passwords should contain a combination of numbers, uppercase and lowercase letters and special characters.
• Never give out a password.
• Never leave a password blank.
• Passwords should never match the user logon.

Protect Yourself Against Viruses and Spyware

• Install anti-virus software and keep it up-to-date.  New viruses are discovered every day, and having updated software will help protect against attack.  There are many anti-virus programs available; it is up to each individual to choose a program that fits his or her needs.
• Consider installing a personal firewall.  There is a wide variety of firewall software available for home use.
• Run a virus and Spyware scan once a week.
• Don’t open email attachments from unknown sources.  Most viruses are spread through email.
• Don’t click on banner ads.  Another way of spreading a virus or spyware is to hide it in a banner or pop-up ad.  Once the ad is clicked, the virus is released and able to damage the machine.
• Scan files with anti-virus software before opening.  If the file is infected, the software should catch it before it is able to do harm.
• Don’t download software from an unknown source. Software downloads can be a disguise for viruses; downloading an infected one will launch the virus.
• Always back up files.  Backups ensure that important information will saved in the event of a system crash.
• Turn on the pop-up blocker.
• Change security controls in Internet Explorer to help stop Spyware infections.  Open Internet Explorer; go to Tools, Internet Options, Security. Under Internet choose Custom Level.  Then disable the following options:
• Download unsigned ActiveX controls
• Initialize and script ActiveX controls not marked as safe
• Active scripting
• Scripting of Java applets

Protect Yourself from Phishing Scams

Phishing scams are a method of tricking the consumer into sharing his or her account number, credit card number or other personal information.  Usually a person is sent a fraudulent email that appears to be from a financial institution.  The email will then direct the reader to a phony Website.  Once at this site, the customer is asked to enter an account number, user name and password. This information can then be used to steal funds from the customer’s account.

• Never enter account numbers or other information on a Website that seems suspicious.
• If in doubt, call the bank in question and verify that an email was sent out.
• Legitimate companies never ask for account information through email.

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