Preventing Theft

Anti-virus Software

Antivirus software helps protect your devices from viruses, malware, ransomware, and other harmful programs that can steal or damage your data. It scans files and websites for known threats, blocks suspicious activity, and removes malicious software before it can cause harm.

Without antivirus protection, you’re more vulnerable to cyberattacks that can compromise your personal information, slow down your computer, or even lock you out of your own files. Good antivirus software updates automatically to defend against the latest threats, giving you peace of mind while you browse, shop, and work online.
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2-Factor Authentication

Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) adds an extra layer of security to your online accounts. Instead of relying only on a password, 2FA requires a second step to verify your identity. This second step is usually something you have (like a phone or security key) or something you are (like a fingerprint).

With 2FA, even if someone gets your password, they can’t access your account without the second factor. This greatly reduces the risk of unauthorized access, identity theft, and fraud. Major services like email, banking, and social media offer 2FA because it’s one of the simplest, most effective ways to keep your information safe.
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The "Family Secret"

This method is a tech-free solution that, when use properly, will save your family from a lot of hardship. Follow these steps:
 
  • Create a confidential safe word with loved ones/family
    • Only share it with trusted individuals and stress the importance of keeping it a secret
 
  • Make it so irregular that no one would use it in a normal sentence
    • For example, “Ruby Red Shoes." This allows you to verify if the person you are speaking to is really the right person.
 
  • Establish with the trustees that when in doubt of a situation, simply ask: "What's the safe word?"
 
  • Only proceed with a trusted situation when the safe word is spoken

Also, the safe word can serve other purposes beyond avoiding scams. For instance, if someone is in a dangerous or uncomfortable situation but doesn’t want to express their feelings outright to those around them, they can use the code word to signal they need help.
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Here are some examples of famously random Stay Fraud Free safe words
Green eggs and ham netflix
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 When Browsing the Web...

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Verify the URL

Google’s Safe Browsing technology examines billions of URLs per day, looking for unsafe websites. It will provide a report when it detects sites that may contain malware, phishing scams, or other harmful content. Use it whenever you are browsing the web, especially when unsure about a link. Click on the logo to stay safe!
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Use Strong Passwords

Use the following information when deciding your passwords:
 
  • Use a different password for each account.
 
  • Include a combination of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols.
 
  • Do not use personal information such as names or birthdates.
 
  • Update your passwords regularly.
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Look for a Padlock

Always make sure your websites are verified and secure. When browsing a website, you should look for the following:
 
  • "https://" (notice how there is an "s" for secure, an unverified site has only "http://"
 
  • A padlock icon in the top left-hand corner
 
  • No noticeable spelling and grammar mistakes in the domain or website