We live in an online world where your personal data is potentially there for the taking. At Glassman Wealth Services, we can do everything right in helping clients save and invest, but if a scammer comes along and takes their money? It’s all for naught.

Our team is dedicated to keeping clients’ data secure. But what are some things you can do on your own to protect your information? It’s something we take seriously and discuss often with our clients.

We’ve put together these cybersecurity resources and will continue to add to them. Spread the word. Share with your friends, family, and community. Some knowledge is simply too vital to keep to oneself.

 

Glassman Wealth Tackles Cyber Scammers: One-on-One Conversation and Q&A with Jim Browning

Jim Browning is no ordinary expert. He’s a virtual vigilante who doesn’t just talk about scams but actively fights them. He delves into the heart of the hacker’s den, accesses their systems, and rescues unsuspecting individuals from potential scams – live. Discover Jim’s world on his YouTube channel: youtube.com/jimbrowning

For more insight, watch our interview with Jim here:

And our Q&A with Jim here:

 

Federal Trade Commission: Consumer Alerts

The FTC’s Consumer Advice area of their website includes resources on how to avoid a scam, what to do if you were scammed, and the ability to report frauds and scams. They also regularly update the site with consumer alerts, including donation, job, and insurance scams.

 

BanksNeverAskThat.com

This website was created by the American Bankers Association to help consumers better understand potential scams. It includes examples of email, text, phone, and payment app scams; videos; an ‘is it legit or a scam’ quiz; tips to strengthen your defenses; and how to respond if you’ve been a victim of a scam.

 

AARP’s Scams & Fraud website

The AARP’s Scams & Fraud website includes numerous articles, scam alerts, fraud fighting tips, a helpline if you suspect a scam, and a robust resource center.

 

Fraud.org

This website, a project of the National Consumers League, includes fraud prevention tips, top scams, and the ability to file a complaint.

 

Signs of a scam:

  • Amazon (& other companies) will never call you
  • You’re asked for personal information (answers to security questions, one-time codes, etc.)
  • You’re asked for access to your device(s)
  • You feel panicked. Scammers are counting on you making quick decisions without thinking.

Tips for staying safe:

  • Keep your devices up to date
  • Be skeptical of inbound communications
  • Stop the call and verify by calling directly
  • Use unique passwords and a password manager

 

The Washington Post’s Avoiding Scams 101

From the Washington Post’s Help Desk – a printable resource including signs of a scam, safety precautions, and important phone numbers.

 

Yes, it’s a scam: Simple tips to help you spot online fraud
Here’s how to protect your family members and yourself from scams

From the Washington Post – this article covers how to have ‘the talk’ with family members, how to change settings to your accounts to minimize scam risks, signs of a scam, and important tips to avoid being scammed.