(In)Securities: Slow Down

Read Vicki’s few tips for protecting yourself and loved ones.

Cybersecurity threats are becoming harder to spot. Fraudulent emails, texts, calls, and account requests can look legitimate, often creating a sense of urgency designed to make us act before we stop and think. Good cybersecurity requires both technology and a willingness to slow down and question something that doesn’t seem right.

 To help prevent fraud, we recommend a few basic security measures:

1. Protect your devices.

Run a full system scan using antivirus, anti-malware, and anti-spyware software on all computers and devices.

 2. Strengthen your Schwab Alliance credentials.

Update your Schwab Alliance web credentials and add free two factor authentication using a security code delivered by security token or SMS text at each login.

 3. Add a verbal password.

Add a verbal password to your accounts as another way to help verify your identity.

 4. Review your other financial accounts.

Take the same precautions with accounts held at other financial institutions and review the security measures available to you.

Sometimes protecting yourself means creating a little conflict: questioning a request, declining to provide information, or checking with our advisor before proceeding. Urgency should be a reason to verify, not a reason to rush.

For help updating Schwab credentials and security features, clients can call Schwab Alliance at 800-515-2157.