With the holiday season just around the corner, many retailers are vying for your business. But scam artists may also be trying to make a sale by stealing your money or profiting from your personal information. Check out these tips for busy holiday shoppers.
Online
· Look for indicators that a retailer’s website is secure, such as a lock icon on the status bar or a web address beginning with https://.
· Use caution when shopping at a Wi-Fi hot spot. If you’re on an unsecured network, other users can see what you see – and what you send.
· Know the seller before you buy. Remember if a deal looks too good to be true, it probably is.
· Don’t click on pop-up ads or links in unsolicited emails.
· Don’t provide personal information via email. Instead, call the business at a number you know to be correct to confirm the request.
· Consider checking your accounts online frequently so that you can spot potentially fraudulent activity more quickly.
· Create unique, hard-to-guess passwords for each of your online accounts and change them often.
· Make sure the virus scan detection software on your computer is current.
Out and about
· Carry only essential IDs such as your driver’s license and health card. Leave your Social Insurance Number (SIN) card in a safe place.
· Do not let private organizations make copies of your IDs unless there is a legitimate need and you know your information will be protected. The information on the copy is as valuable as the original document.
· During transactions, tap, insert or swipe your cards yourself. If you must hand over your debit/credit card, never lose sight of it.
· Don’t carry your wallet in your back pocket or in an open purse slung over your shoulder.
For a better understanding of the growing number of scams targeting investors and their money, visit Fraud Awareness & Prevention, under Client Resources at edwardjones.ca.
If you believe your identity has been stolen, contact the following:
· Your local police and file a report
· The Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre:
o Toll Free: (888) 495-8501
If you’ve been victimized by a scam involving your Edward Jones account, contact your Edward Jones advisor for further guidance.
