Fraud Expert and Author Kelly Keehn spoke at a Professional Development Day I attended; she had some great tips to help avoid being a victim of fraud, they included:
- Shred everything! Never throw out bills or personal information without shredding it first.
- Don’t respond to calls, texts or email that you haven’t initiated
- Check your credit report at Equifax & TransUnion at least twice per year
- If you are concerned; set up proactive fraud alerts; this way you will be contacted anytime your information is being used to apply for credit
- Keep track of your mail; what bills/statements come in and when
- What’s in your wallet? Remove all unnecessary documents like your SIN card & Birth Certificate
- Lock up important documents and paper – invest in a safe for the basement
- Monitor your bank accounts and credit cards every week on-line
- Set up large purchase alerts on your debt and credit cards
- Consider getting Title and ID Theft insurance
Ask Questions
So many times people come to me to ask if an investment they heard of through a friend or relative is legitimate, the only way to know is to ask questions of the person selling the investment;
- What investment products are you licensed to sell?
- What regulatory bodies oversee your work?
- What do you charge – how are you compensated?
- What types of statements will I receive and when?
- What are the guarantees or returns I should expect?
- Will you provide your recommendation in writing?
- What types of clients do you work with?
Be S.A.F.E
S – Search – Search and research before signing anything
A – Ask – Ask lots of questions and know how to spot any red flags
F – Find – Find your own circle of professionals and create a community of trust
E – Evaluate – Evaluate and re-evaluate your situation annually
In this age of cyber fraud, it is important to be aware of the dangers and how to protect yourself and your money.
Have a great long-weekend,
Happy Canada Day!
Tracey
Source: Kelly Keehn, speaker at IFB Summit, 02-06-16,MT 02-06-16