Don't Give Away Your Identity This Holiday Season

KENTWOOD, Mich. - Nov. 25, 2015 - PRLog -- This time of year, lots of 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.

• Remember that if a deal looks too good to be true, it probably is.

• Know the seller before you buy.

• 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 periodically so that you can spot potentially fraudulent activity more quickly.

• Use strong passwords, and change them often.

• Make sure the virus scan detection software on your computer is current.

Out and About

• If you own a credit or debit card containing a chip, use a chip-enabled reader whenever possible. A chip transaction is more secure than one initiated with a magnetic stripe.

• Don’t carry your Social Security number in your wallet or write it on a check.

• Provide it only if absolutely necessary, or ask to use another identifier.

• Don’t carry your wallet in your back pocket or in an open purse slung over your shoulder.

Important Information:
If you believe your identity has been stolen, contact the Federal Trade Commission at www.ftc.gov/idtheft or 877-ID-THEFT (438-4338). For questions about your Edward Jones account, contact your financial advisor.