Online Security - 4 Ways to Avoid Holiday Scams

GRAND RAPIDS, Much (WOTV) – Protect Your Money. Scammers pick up the pace with the frenzied holiday shopping season, so you have to be prepared.

Emails                             

If you get an email that looks like it’s from your credit union or bank or a familiar site and it’s requesting information from you, treat it skeptically. Scam artists often operate by masquerading as legitimate business and pursing the victim to share personal information, especially during the busy holiday season.

Audit Your Accounts

Most of us experience a big shock to our budgets over the holidays, but you can help prepare for the seasonal expenditures by reviewing your typical monthly spending carefully. While following your budget, make sure you are monitoring your credit union or bank accounts frequently. If you see unusual activity, immediately contact your financial institution.

It’s easy to monitor your account with alerts, mobile banking, and online banking like Adventure Credit Union offers.

Enticing Offers

Remember the old saying “If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.” Be wary of special offers or “just for you because of your good track record with us…” Make sure any offers you receive that you look at carefully. Don’t be fooled.

Keep your Computer or Device Updated

Microsoft no longer provides security updates or technical support for older versions of Internet Explorer. Regular security updates help protect computers from malicious attacks, so upgrading and staying current is important.