MINT HILL, NC – You’ve no doubt heard reports of personal data being stolen and used for financial fraud. How can you defend yourself?

Here are a few suggestions:

First, create different passwords for your financial services, social media, and email accounts – and give your passwords some length and complexity.

Also, watch out for fake websites. When making financial transactions, be sure you’re on the site of your bank or financial institution – and not on a false one established by hackers.

Here’s another tip: Don’t share too much personal information on social media. Keep your address, birthday, and even travel plans private.

And try to limit the use of public Wi-Fi, such as that found in hotel lobbies.

Finally, be on the alert for “phishing” communications, which masquerade as notices from banks or financial firms you do business with. Legitimate companies won’t ask for account information or passwords unless you initiate the transaction. And they won’t use threatening language or claim your account has been suspended.

It’s unfortunate that cybercrime is so prevalent – but you can do a lot to protect your financial security.

If you have any questions, please contact me at (980) 859-2549 or by e-mail at brandon.monette@edwardjones.com

This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor