Staying Safe Online

1. Know How to Respond if You Become a Victim
 

If you believe your information has been compromised, act immediately. Inform your advisor at Atlantic Edge Wealth so they can coordinate with Charles Schwab to secure your accounts. We have extensive experience in the ways fraudsters use to get access to your private information, so if you see something that is slightly suspicious, please do not hesitate to reach out.
 

Additionally, if you suspect fraud or identify theft with your Schwab account, you can contact Schwab directly at: 877-862-6352.

 

2. Freeze Your Credit
 

Credit freezes prohibit consumer credit reporting agencies from disclosing the contents of a credit report to any person requesting the data. Freezes prevent any new credit accounts from being established in your name. It is free to freeze and ‘thaw’ your credit and you can do it quickly using the links below. You need to set a freeze for each reporting bureau.

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Freeze or Unfreeze Your Credit File for Free - Experian

Security Freeze | Freeze or Unfreeze Your Credit | Equifax®

Credit Freeze | Freeze My Credit | TransUnion
 

*While credit freezes are extremely important, they don’t protect against all identity theft.

 

3. Stay Vigilant Against Scams and Email Phishing
 

Cybercriminals have become very skilled at disguising themselves as legitimate people or companies. Be extremely skeptical of unsolicited emails, phone calls, or messages requesting personal or financial information. If you receive a request that seems urgent or suspicious, contact your advisor and/or verify the source by calling a separate number from their official website to verify. Never click on unknown links or download attachments from unfamiliar sources.
 

Spot Phishing Emails | Here is how (youtube.com)

 

4. Adopt Strong Password Practices & Use Schwab’s Multi-Factor-Authentication
 

Create unique and complex passwords for each account. Protect these passwords and avoid writing them down anywhere. We strongly encourage enabling multi-factor authentication (MFA) with Charles Schwab for an added layer of security.
 

How to set up two-factor authentication. | Charles Schwab
 

 

5. Use Caution with Every Financial Transaction
 

When managing your finances, especially online, it’s crucial to ensure that your transactions are secure. Never send anyone your private account information unless it is to a known sender, through a secure link.

Fraudsters often target wire transactions, knowing they are difficult to reverse. Always work with your advisor on any financial transaction so they can assist with its security.
 

6. Keep Your Devices Updated
 

Ensure that your computer, tablet, and mobile devices are always running the latest software. Cybercriminals exploit vulnerabilities in outdated systems. Setting your devices to update automatically will help protect against these threats.

 

7. Be Cautious with Public Wi-Fi
 

Avoid accessing sensitive information, such as banking accounts, over public Wi-Fi networks, which are often unsecured. If you are out in public, use your cellular connection or your phone’s hotspot.
 

How to Turn Your Phone Into a Wi-Fi Hotspot | PCMag

 

8. Educate Family Members About Online Security
 

Encourage discussions about online safety, particularly with children and older adults. Stress the importance of strong passwords and the dangers of phishing scams to reduce the risk of cyber incidents​.
 

By staying vigilant, adopting strong security practices, and working closely with us, you can significantly reduce your risk of falling victim to cybercrime. Remember, your security is our priority, and we’re here to support you every step of the way. If you ever have any concerns or questions, don’t hesitate to reach out.

 

Additional Steps You Can Take:
 

Secure Your Home Network

Your home Wi-Fi is a potential entry point for cybercriminals. Secure your network with a strong password and enable WPA3 encryption. Regularly update your router's firmware to protect against the latest threats​.
 

Regularly Back Up Your Data

Back up your important files to both external hard drives and cloud storage services. This ensures that your data is recoverable in the event of a cyberattack or device failure​.

 

Go Paperless with Bank and Investment Statements and Documents

Opting into paperless statements eliminates the possibility of someone stealing sensitive information from your mailbox. Your email inbox is not an invincible safe place, but it is more secure than receiving physical mail. Most statements will require you to sign in to view, which is why multi-factor authentication is very important to protect your data.