Fraud can happen to anyone, and scammers are getting more convincing every day. The good news is that a few simple adjustments to your daily habits can go a long way in helping you stay safe and avoid becoming a victim.
Start with your mail. Try to pick it up as soon as possible, especially if you’re expecting something important. When you’re sending sensitive information or money, it’s safest to take it directly to the post office instead of leaving it in your mailbox, where it could be stolen.
At home, small security steps can make a big difference. A front‑door security camera can help discourage suspicious activity. And if someone shows up at your door that you don’t recognize or weren’t expecting, it’s okay not to answer. Scammers often rely on surprise and confusion to catch people off guard.
Protecting your personal information is just as important. Any paperwork with private details like account numbers or birthdates should be shredded before going in the trash. It also helps to clean out your wallet and carry only the cards you use. Fewer cards means less risk if your wallet is lost or stolen.
When it comes to your finances, stay alert. If you’re paying with a card, take a quick look at the card reader. If it looks loose, damaged, or tampered with, choose another payment method. Make it a habit to review your bank and credit‑card statements and check your credit report now and then so you can catch any unusual activity early.
Online security matters, too. Using a different username and password for each account helps keep one breach from becoming a bigger problem. Turning on biometric login or two‑factor authentication adds an extra layer of protection. It’s also smart to be mindful of how much personal information you share on social media, since scammers often use those details to make their messages seem more believable. Try setting your profile(s) to private to avoid any scammers from using the information that’s there.
Be especially cautious if someone pressures you to act fast or tells you there’s an “urgent” problem. That’s a common scam tactic. Another major warning sign is being asked to pay with gift cards, cryptocurrency, or gold as those payment methods are rarely legitimate and are among the favorite tools of scammers. Finally, don’t go it alone. Talk openly with friends or family you trust and use them as a sounding board if something feels off. Getting a second opinion can help you slow down, think clearly, and avoid making a rushed decision you might regret. Additionally, utilize resources such as the FTC’s My Action Plan to help implement proactive steps.
