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Consumer Protection Department Shares Practical Tips To Help Safeguard Personal Information
Westchester County is encouraging residents to protect themselves against identity theft by following simple precautions that can help safeguard personal and financial information. The Westchester County Department of Consumer Protection has released 10 practical tips designed to help residents recognize common scams and reduce their risk of becoming victims of fraud.
The Department of Consumer Protection encourages residents to remain vigilant by safeguarding sensitive documents, protecting online accounts and recognizing common scam tactics. Small preventative measures can significantly reduce the risk of identity theft and financial fraud.
Identity theft prevention tips include:
- Shield keypads and paperwork from “shoulder surfers” when entering personal information in public.
- Shred bank statements, tax records and other confidential documents before disposing of them.
- Keep financial records, identification documents and checkbooks in a secure location at home.
- Protect outgoing and incoming mail by using secure USPS collection boxes and retrieving mail promptly.
- Help prevent check washing by using electronic payments when possible or permanent black gel ink when writing checks.
- Verify website addresses before shopping online and consider using a credit card or digital wallet for added security.
- Ignore unexpected emails or text messages requesting personal information and contact the company directly using verified contact information.
- Never share passwords, PINs or login credentials with unsolicited callers claiming to represent a financial institution.
- Avoid accessing sensitive information over unsecured public Wi-Fi unless using a secure VPN connection.
- Freeze your credit with the three major credit bureaus and regularly review your credit reports for suspicious activity.
Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins said: “Protecting yourself from identity theft starts with staying informed. As scams become more sophisticated, taking a few simple precautions can make a significant difference. We encourage residents to remain vigilant and use the resources available through our Department of Consumer Protection to help keep their personal information secure.”
Westchester County Department of Consumer Protection Director Jim Maisano said: “Many identity theft cases can be prevented by recognizing common warning signs and adopting smart security habits. Whether you’re shopping online, checking your mail or answering your phone, taking a moment to verify before you act can help protect your finances and your identity.”
Westchester County’s Department of Consumer Protection is committed to educating residents about fraud prevention and consumer safety. The Department regularly shares information on emerging scams, identity theft prevention and other consumer protection topics to help residents make informed decisions and avoid becoming victims of fraud.
For more information about identity theft prevention and other consumer alerts, visit the Westchester County Department of Consumer Protection at consumer.westchestercountyny.gov or the Department’s Facebook, X, Instagram & TikTok accounts.
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