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Preventative Measures

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Preventative Actions:

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  • Guard your personal information:
    Don’t share sensitive details like Social Security numbers, bank account information, or passwords, especially online.

  • Be cautious with online links and attachments:
    Verify the source before clicking on suspicious links or opening unknown attachments in emails.

  • Use strong passwords:
    Create complex passwords and change them regularly across different platforms.

  • Monitor your accounts:
    Regularly review bank statements, credit card bills, and online accounts for any unauthorized activity.

  • Credit report monitoring:
    Access your credit report regularly from the three major bureaus (Equifax, Experian, TransUnion) to spot any suspicious activity or accounts opened without your knowledge.

  • Shred sensitive documents:
    Properly dispose of documents containing personal information by shredding them.

  • Be wary of scams:
    Be skeptical of deals that seem too good to be true, and never rush into providing personal information.

What Can You Do to Prevent Fraud and Actions to Take if You Are a Victim

Actions to Take After Discovering Fraud:

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  • Contact your bank immediately:
    Report fraudulent activity to your bank or credit card company to dispute charges and prevent further losses.

  • Place a fraud alert or credit freeze:
    Contact the credit bureaus to place a fraud alert on your credit report, which will require additional verification for any new credit checks.

  • File a police report:
    If the fraud involves significant financial loss or identity theft, report the incident to local authorities.

  • Document everything:
    Keep records of all fraudulent transactions, communications with companies, and any other relevant details.

  • Contact relevant agencies:
    Depending on the type of fraud, you may need to reach out to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), or other appropriate organizations.

  • Review your accounts thoroughly:
    Carefully check all accounts linked to your personal information for additional fraudulent activity.

  • Change passwords:
    Immediately update passwords on all accounts that may have been compromised.

  • Consider credit monitoring services:
    Sign up for a credit monitoring service to track your credit report for any further suspicious activity.

Fraud Prevention and Response Resources

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Stay informed and protect yourself from fraud by exploring the following resources. These links offer valuable information on preventing fraud and taking action if you've been a victim.

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Fraud Prevention Tips

What to Do After Fraud Happens

Financial Resources for Refugees and Immigrants

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