Critical fraud prevention tips

1. THE "BACK OF THE CARD" RULE

If someone calls claiming to be from my bank: Hang up. Even if they know my name or part of my SSN, I will only call the official number printed on the back of my actual debit/ credit card.

2. THE "REMOTE ACCESS" NEVER-LIST

I will NEVER allow a caller to "log into" or "remote access" my computer. No real bank or tech support (like Microsoft or Apple) will ever call out of the blue to fix my PC.

3. SECRET CODES ARE SECRET

If I get a text or email with a 6-digit code, it is for my eyes only. I will never read it to anyone over the phone, even if they claim to be "verifying" my identity.

4. NO GIFT CARDS OR TRANSFERS

A real bank will never ask me to buy gift cards, use a Bitcoin ATM, or wire money to a "safe account" to protect it. That is always a scam.