What if I accidentally gave my information to a scammer?

Protect Yourself after Contacting a Scammer

Immediate Actions:

• Change passwords: Update passwords for all affected accounts, including email, bank, social media, and any other important accounts.
• Monitor accounts: Regularly check your financial and online accounts for unauthorized transactions or activity.
• Report the incident: Contact law enforcement or the appropriate authorities to report the scam. Provide as much information as possible.

Further Precautions:

• Contact financial institutions: Notify your banks and credit card companies about the situation. They may place a fraud alert or freeze your accounts to prevent unauthorized access.
• Consider a credit freeze: This blocks your credit report from being accessed by potential creditors, making it harder for scammers to open accounts in your name.
• Seek professional advice: An attorney or financial advisor can provide guidance on additional steps to protect your identity and finances.

Recognizing the Signs of a Scam

• Unsolicited emails, calls, or texts claiming you have won a prize or inherited money.
• Requests for personal information, such as your Social Security number or credit card details.
• Pressure to make a quick decision or provide immediate payment.
• Promises that are too good to be true, such as guaranteed high returns on investment.

Protecting Your Information

• Be cautious of sharing personal data: Only provide information to trusted sources.
• Use strong passwords: Create complex passwords with a combination of letters, numbers, and symbols.
• Enable two-factor authentication: Add an extra layer of security to your accounts by requiring a code sent to your phone or email.
• Be wary of public Wi-Fi networks: Scammers can intercept data transmitted over unsecured networks.
• Stay informed: Regularly educate yourself about the latest scams and protect yourself accordingly.