What Can We Do to Protect Ourselves?

There are steps we can all take to minimize the risk of getting caught up in a scam and, to be honest, most of them are remarkably simple. Here are my top tips:

1. Think Critically

If there was ever a time to tap into your inner Sherlock Holmes, it’s now! If you receive a call, text, or email from someone out of the blue who claims to be from a government agency then tread VERY carefully! Do not feel pressured to share any information with anyone who has contacted you – regardless of what they say. Take a moment and ask yourself why they would be contacting you. If they are calling you – and you still aren’t sure – ask for their number so you can call them back later.

Remember – reputable organizations will rarely – if ever – call you and ask for personal information. And if you still aren’t sure – ask a family member or trusted friend for their advice. But remain skeptical at all times!

2. Passwords, Passwords, Passwords

Yes, I know I sound like a broken record – but having an easily guessable password that you use on all your devices and accounts is no different to playing Russian Roulette – you won’t come out on top! Unfortunately, data breaches are a reality of our digital life. If a scammer gets their hands on your email and password combo through a data breach – and you have used that same combo on all your accounts – then you are effectively giving them access to your online life.

So, you need a separate complex password for each of your online accounts. It needs to be at least 8 characters and a combination of numbers, letter (lower and uppercase), and symbols. I love using a nonsensical sentence but a password manager that does all the thinking – and remember – is the absolute best way of managing your passwords. Check out McAfee.com/activate Total Protection, which includes a Password Manager.

3. Keep Your Personal Information Tight

The best way to keep your personal information safe is by keeping it to yourself! Limit the amount of personal information you share – particularly on social media. Oversharing online makes it even easier for a scammer to steal your identity. And please avoid linking up your credit or debit cards to your online accounts unless absolutely necessary. Yes, it’s so convenient and a great way of making spontaneous purchases but it is a very risky business.

2020 has certainly been a tough year for us all. Many of us are struggling – financially and psychologically as we come to grips with our changing world. So, please – take a little time to tighten up your online life and remember if something seems too good to be true then it probably is!