Fraudsters are busy, don't fall victim to hacking and fraud by taking a few simple common sense steps. Let’s take a look at some of the basics:
Choose Your PIN Wisely & Safeguard It
Select a PIN that is easy to remember but difficult to guess and unique to your account. Having “0000” or “1234” for a PIN or using the same PIN for all or most of your accounts compromises your PIN and is like handing over the keys to your kingdom.
Don't share your PIN, and don't write it down or store it where it is accessible by people other than you.
Strengthen Your Password
A strong password includes a variety of upper and lower case letters, numbers, and special characters and some punctuation where allowed. Avoid using easy-to-guess passwords such as “Password”.
Consider using a password manager if you are not good at remembering passwords. Most web browsers offer this feature for free now.
Secure Your Email Address
Similar to securing your Sezzle account, it is essential to secure your email address too. Follow the guidelines above to select a strong password and use two-step authentication if it is available. Use an authentication app such as Google Authenticator or Microsoft Authenticator if your email provider allows it.
How Can I Protect My Information?
Don't Fall Victim to Phishing
Phishing is when fraudsters and hackers pretend as if they are legitimate contacts and aim to get information from you to access your accounts.
Beware of Sketchy Communication
Don’t open links in emails or texts unless you are sure that they are coming from legitimate sources. Some suspicious emails and text messages may contain attachments and links to websites that try to install malicious software on your device.
Keep Your Keys Safe
Never share your usernames, passwords, or PINs on websites or applications that you are not sure about. Legitimate businesses do not ask you to disclose these or your payment information. If in doubt, stop and contact the business directly to verify the authenticity of the contact.
The Spam Folder is Your Friend
Don't reply to unsolicited messages. Replying to phishing and spam messages verifies the validity of your account, which will prompt more spam and attacks. Mark them as spam to avoid receiving more contacts from the suspicious source.
Surround Your Devices with a Digital Moat
Install an antivirus or anti-malware software and apply updates when available. Securing your system even by a little is better than not securing it at all. Fraudsters are after easy targets. Don't make their job easier.