Entries by Mark Duffy

Data Breaches | 6/27/2018

What to know, What to do

Did you recently get a notice that says your personal information was exposed in a data breach?

Did you lose your wallet?

Or learn that an online account was hacked? Depending on the type of information exposed, the Federal Trade Commission can tell you what to do right away. You’ll find these steps – and more – at IdentityTheft.gov/databreach.

What information was lost or exposed? 

Security Awareness For Taxpayers | 1/24/2018

TAXES. SECURITY. TOGETHER.

The IRS, the states and the tax industry are committed to protecting you from identity theft. We’ve strengthened our partnership to fight a common enemy – the criminals – and to devote ourselves to a common goal – serving you. Working together, we’ve made many changes to combat identity theft, and we are making progress. However, cybercriminals are constantly evolving, and so must we. The IRS is working hand-in-hand with your state revenue officials, your tax software provider and your tax preparer. But, we need your help. We need you to join with us. By taking a few simple steps, you can better protect your personal and financial data online and at home.

Please consider these steps to protect yourselves from identity thieves:

Scam Alert: Fake Debt Collectors | 10/25/2017

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC), the nation’s consumer protection agency, is warning consumers to be on the alert for scam artists posing as debt collectors.

Scam Alert: Fake Debt Collectors

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC), the nation’s consumer protection agency, is warning consumers to be on the alert for scam artists posing as debt collectors. It may be hard to tell the difference between a legitimate debt collector and a fake one. Sometimes a fake collector may even have some of your personal information, like a bank account number. A caller may be a fake debt collector if he:

10 Scams Targeting Bank Customers: Plus the basics on how to protect your personal information and your money | 6/9/2017

The FDIC often hears from bank customers who believe they may be the victims of financial fraud or theft, and our staff members provide information on where and how to report suspicious activity. To help further, FDIC Consumer News includes crime prevention tips in practically every issue. As part of that coverage, we feature here a list of 10 scams that you should be aware of, plus key defenses to remember.

Warning Signs of Identity Theft | 5/19/2016

What Do Thieves Do With Your Information?

Once identity thieves have your personal information, they can drain your bank account, run up charges on your credit cards, open new utility accounts, or get medical treatment on your health insurance. An identity thief can file a tax refund in your name and get your refund. In some extreme cases, a thief might even give your name to the police during an arrest.

Clues That Someone Has Stolen Your Information

BE WARY OF YOUR ATM! | 7/14/2015

Strange contraptions known as “skimmers” are targeting ATM users, and the Washington State Attorney General’s Office wants you to be prepared. When attached to your ATM or gas pump, the device can be used to steal your credit card information, capture your pin code, and send the information wirelessly via Bluetooth or cell phone text. Don’t let this happen to you!

Here are some ways to avoid being scammed: