Safeguarding Your Personal Information: Easy Tips for Peace of Mind
In today’s world, staying connected online has become essential for everything from reviewing accounts to paying bills and staying in touch with loved ones. However, with this convenience comes the responsibility of protecting yourself from potential threats. We want to share a few simple cybersecurity tips to help you navigate the online world safely and with confidence.
1. Be Cautious About Letting Others Access Your Computer
It’s important to never allow anyone to control your computer remotely. Scammers may call or send emails pretending to be from a trusted company, asking to fix a problem on your computer. Remember, reputable companies will never ask to take control of your computer without your permission first. If you ever receive such a request, contact the company directly using a verified phone number.
2. Verify Before You Share Personal Information
If someone asks for your personal information—whether by phone, email, or online—only share it if you were the one who initiated the contact using official contact information. Always be sure you're reaching out to a trusted source directly. This includes things like your Social Security number, banking details, or even login information.
3. Run Suspicious Emails by Us First
We’re always here to help when it comes to anything related to your finances, especially if you receive suspicious emails or messages that look like they’re from your bank, investment company, or any financial institution. If you’re unsure about an email or phone call, forward the message to us or give us a call. We can help you determine whether it’s legitimate or something to be cautious about.
4. Take Your Time
If you ever receive a phone call, email, message, or even a letter that feels suspicious, don’t feel rushed to respond. Scammers often try to create a sense of urgency to get you to act quickly. Take a step back, and give yourself time to think before making any decisions. Reach out to a trusted family member or our team for guidance if you’re unsure about anything. No decision should be made in haste, and we’re here to support you.
5. Keep Your Guard Up
Being cautious doesn’t mean being paranoid—it means taking small steps to ensure your online safety. One important step is regularly changing your passwords, even though it may feel inconvenient. Doing this makes you less vulnerable to scams and unauthorized access. Scammers are good at making things look convincing, but by being extra careful, updating your passwords, and taking your time before acting, you can avoid falling into their traps.
We’re Here to Help
If you ever feel unsure or concerned about anything you come across online, whether it’s an email, a phone call, or something on your computer, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We’re always here to look into things for you and provide advice so that you can focus on what matters most.
*The foregoing content reflects the opinions of Van Hulzen Asset Management DBA "Van Hulzen Financial Advisors" and is subject to change at any time without notice. Content provided herein is for informational purposes only and should not be used or construed as investment advice or a recommendation regarding the purchase or sale of any security. There is no guarantee that the statements, opinions, or forecasts provided herein will prove to be correct. Past performance may not be indicative of future results. Indices are not available for direct investment. Any investor who attempts to mimic the performance of an index would incur fees and expenses which would reduce returns. Securities investing involves risk, including the potential for loss of principal. There is no assurance that any investment plan or strategy will be successful.