Scammers and web hackers are on the loose and prying stronger than ever right now. In efforts to protect our clients we would like to share some best practice tips provided by Charles Schwab to ensure you are not a victim of cybercrime and fraud.
As your financial advisor, we highly recommend giving us a call when requesting money movement or changes to any personal information. If you choose to email this information, we will give you a call to confirm the email is from you. You may be asked to verify personal information to confirm that you are the caller. We have seen more and more identity fraud and want to ensure it is always our client on the other end of the line.
Schwab has also implemented strong practices to ensure your account is protected by them. They are asking all clients to set up two factor authentication and voice ID.
Here at Global View, we also store all client information on a secure server that is firewall protected and password secured. Our client’s privacy and security are of utmost importance to us.
Here are some action steps you can take to further help protect yourself:
Caution of Data Provided
1. Do not answer any unknown numbers. Let them leave a message. If it looks to be of importance call them back but be sure not to provide any personal information. Do not provide any banking information!!!2. When sending personal information via email always use a secure link. Global View uses Citrix Sharefile for all secure files. Please ask us for a link if you need to send sensitive information.
a. If you send sensitive information over email, there is a high chance of identity theft.
3. Social Media is a key component. Do not share full names, birthdates, or contact info. Anyone can view social media even with a high security setting you are not completely protected.
4. Be sure to properly dispose of all devices. If someone gets access to old device not properly disposed of, they can access your data.
Monitor
5. Consistently monitor your bank and credit card statement for unapproved activity. Immediately call if you notice any activity, you did not approve.6. Be sure Anti-virus/ anti malware is installed on all computers and mobile devices.
7. Keep your web browser up to date and be sure to clear your cache frequently. Things get downloaded to your computer behind the scenes as you browse the internet.
Caution in Public
8. Never provide personal information when in a public location (verbally or typed). Others around you can hear you or access your phone if connected to the same server.
9. Always avoid public computers and public Wi-Fi. Use your personal hotspot with a password if you need to use the internet in a public space.
10. Make sure your bluetooth and sharing capabilities are turned off when not in use.
Security
11. Create unique and smart usernames and passwords. Do not include personal information in your login information.
a. Never share your passwords
b. Always use two factor authentication when possible.
12. Make sure you have a safe web connection.
a. https over http when possible.
13. Avoid visiting sites that are in advertisements, web pop-ups, or banners.
14. ALWAYS sign out of all web sites when complete with your search/visit.
a. This is especially crucial for credit card sites, banking sites, and financial sites.
15. Always double check the email address of a fishing email. Hackers have learned how to show a name that looks like someone you know but the email address will not be correct.
To learn read the full article written by Schwab about Fraud Protection: https://advisorservices.schwab.com/resource/tips-for-preventing-fraud.
At Global View we strive to help our clients navigate safely through their financial journey. Please contact us if you have any questions.
