When you hear the words “data breach,” a natural – and understandable – response is to be nervous about the impact to your finances. Having your personal information compromised can lead to negative impacts on your credit, which can impact you when you apply for a loan or purchase a home. The good news is … read more »
How to Prevent Identity Theft
Identity theft has become one of the fastest growing crimes in America. This unauthorized access to your personal information is used to open new financial accounts or access your existing accounts, enabling the thief to steal your money or charge items on your credit card, leaving you with the bills. But with a few common … read more »
Cybersecurity for Small Businesses
Ways to Stay Protected from FDIC Consumer News In today’s world, it’s important for small business owners to be vigilant in protecting their computer systems and data. Among the reasons: Federal consumer protections generally do not cover businesses for losses they incur from unauthorized electronic fund transfers. That means, for example, your bank may not … read more »
Avoid Malware: Think Before You Click!
Good Practices from FDIC Consumer News Malicious software — or “malware” for short — is a broad class of software built with malicious intent. “You may have heard of malware being referred to as a ‘computer bug’ or ‘virus’ because most malware is designed to spread like a contagious illness, infecting other computers it comes … read more »
Internet Security Checklist
Reminders about 10 simple things bank customers can do to help protect their computers and their money from online criminals Have computer security programs running and regularly updated to look for the latest threats. Install anti-virus software to protect against malware (malicious software) that can steal information such as account numbers and passwords, and use … read more »
How to Protect Your Mobile Wallet
Consumers are increasingly using their smartphones, tablets and other mobile devices as “mobile wallets” to pay for goods and services, downloading software that allows them to complete both mobile and in-person transactions. As the use of mobile wallet services increases, consumers need to protect their smartphones, mobile wallet applications, associated data, and mobile wallet services … read more »
Beware of Malware
Malicious software — or “malware” for short — is a broad class of software built with malicious intent. “You may have heard of malware being referred to as a ‘computer bug’ or ‘virus’ because most malware is designed to spread like a contagious illness, infecting other computers it comes into contact with,” said Michael Benardo, … read more »
More Tips on Protecting Your Mobile Devices
Everywhere you look, people are using smartphones and tablets as portable, hand-held computers. “Unfortunately, cybercriminals are also interested in using or accessing these devices to steal information or commit other crimes,” said Michael Benardo, manager of the FDIC’s Cyber Fraud and Financial Crimes Section. “That makes it essential for users of mobile devices to take … read more »
Trust, Love, and Password Sharing?
A strong password is a great way to prevent hackers and identity thieves from accessing your accounts. But what if you share it with someone you know? Many teens and young adults are giving passwords to friends or loved ones as a sign of trust or love. After all, sharing is caring, right? But what … read more »