Security

Essential Tips to Protect Your Data

Smartphones store sensitive data, making them a target for cybercriminals. Follow these tips to keep your device secure:

✔ Lock Your Device – Set a strong password or PIN and enable auto-lock to protect your device if lost or stolen.

✔ Download Apps from Trusted Sources – Only install apps from reputable stores, check reviews, and read privacy policies before granting permissions.

✔ Back Up Your Data – Regularly back up important files to the cloud or an external hard drive to prevent data loss.

✔ Keep Your System Updated – Install software updates as they often include security patches that protect against new threats.

✔ Avoid Jailbreaking Your Device – Modifying your phone’s system can weaken security and make it easier for hackers to access your data.

✔ Log Out of Banking & Shopping Sites – Always log out after using financial sites and avoid making transactions over public Wi-Fi.

✔ Turn Off Wi-Fi & Bluetooth When Not in Use – Hackers can exploit open connections, so disable these features when you’re not using them.

✔ Avoid Sharing Personal Info via Text or Email – Scammers may impersonate banks or businesses. Verify messages directly with the company before responding.

✔ Be Careful What You Click – Don't open links or attachments from unknown sources. Be especially cautious of shortened URLs and QR codes.

✔ Install a Mobile Security App – Protect your device from malware and cyber threats with a trusted mobile security app.

✔ Use Mobile Payment Apps Cautiously – Apps like CashApp, Venmo, and Zelle make sending money easy, but only transfer funds to people you know and trust to avoid potential scams.

Identity Theft Protection: Stay One Step Ahead

Identity theft is one of the fastest-growing crimes, and technology has made it easier for criminals to steal personal and financial information. Protecting yourself requires vigilance and smart habits. Follow these key steps to safeguard your identity:

✔ Guard Your Personal Information – Be cautious when sharing financial details, especially your Social Security Number (SSN). It’s only required for tax records, medical forms, college applications, loans, and vehicle registration.

✔ Verify Who You’re Communicating With – Banks, the IRS, and other official entities already have your account details and won’t ask for sensitive information unexpectedly.

✔ Keep Your Social Security Card Secure – Never carry it in your wallet; store it in a safe place.

✔ Protect Your Mail – Most identity theft starts with stolen mail or trash. Consider a P.O. Box for sensitive documents, and never leave bills or financial statements in an unlocked mailbox.

✔ Shred Sensitive Documents – Destroy outdated bank statements, paycheck stubs (annually), credit card receipts (every 45 days), insurance forms, and credit offers immediately to prevent dumpster diving fraud.

✔ Monitor Your Credit – Order a free credit report annually from each reporting agency and review it for any suspicious activity.

These simple but essential steps can go a long way in protecting your identity from fraudsters.

Don't Get Hooked: Protect Yourself from Phishing Scams

Phishing scams are on the rise, with fraudsters using fake emails and websites to steal personal information. These scams often mimic legitimate companies, complete with official logos and design elements. Stay protected with these key precautions:

✔ Use Security Software – Install and update a firewall, antivirus, and anti-spyware programs to safeguard your devices.

✔ Ignore Suspicious Emails – Delete any emails requesting personal information. Note: CommonWealth will never ask for your personal details via email.

✔ Avoid Clicking on Email Links – If an email looks suspicious, don’t click on any links. Instead, open a new browser window and type in the website address yourself.

✔ Update Your Passwords Regularly – Change your online banking and shopping account passwords every three to six months.

✔ Check for Secure Websites – Only enter credit card or account information on secure websites that start with “https” and display a padlock icon in the browser.

✔ Monitor Your Accounts – If you have online banking, check your accounts frequently for any unusual activity.

By staying alert and following these steps, you can avoid becoming a victim of phishing scams.

Protecting Seniors from Financial Exploitation

Many older adults are highly trusting, which can make them vulnerable to sophisticated scams and financial abuse. Perpetrators may include both strangers and even trusted family members. Exploitation often targets a senior’s income, property, or other assets.

Common Forms of Financial Exploitation:
✔ Theft of Income – The most common form of fraud, often involving small, repeated withdrawals (typically under $1,000 per transaction).
✔ Theft of Assets – More extensive fraud that may involve misuse of Powers of Attorney, real estate scams, identity theft, or tax manipulation.

Red Flags to Watch For:

• Suspicious or forged signatures on documents.
• Unusual check numbers or missing funds from accounts.
• Statements or bills sent to an unfamiliar address.
• Frequent large cash withdrawals or unexpected ATM activity.
• Sudden increase in credit card use or a rise in bounced checks.
• An elderly individual who seems confused about recent financial decisions.
• A new or abrupt change in a financial Power of Attorney or account signers.
• Relatives or caregivers who suddenly take an active role in finances.
• Overpayment of a caregiver or unexplained changes in a senior’s physical appearance or hygiene.

Report Financial Abuse Immediately:
The Santa Clara County Department of Aging and Adult Services (DAAS) has a Financial Abuse Specialist Team (FAST) dedicated to addressing financial exploitation. If you suspect abuse, call: (408) 975-4900 or (800) 414-2002

Taking swift action can help protect seniors from devastating financial harm.

Unauthorized Transactions? Here’s How to Respond

If you suspect unauthorized activity or identity theft, acting quickly is crucial. Here’s what to do:

Lost or Stolen CommonWealth Visa Credit or Debit Card?

• Call (800) 564-1588, option 6—available 24/7—to report your card lost or stolen. You’ll be automatically connected to our card service provider to block your card immediately.
• You can also contact our card service provider directly at (800) 682-6075.

Suspicious Charges on Your CommonWealth Visa Credit or Debit Card?

• Call (800) 564-1588, option 0 to report unusual activity.
• If calling outside our business hours (Monday – Thursday, 9 AM – 5 PM; Friday, 9 AM – 6 PM), our after-hours team will take your information and forward it to us. A Member Service Representative will follow up on the next business day.

Unusual Activity on Your CommonWealth Checking or Share Account?

• Visit your nearest branch or call (800) 564-1588, option 0.
• If calling after business hours, our team will document your concern and a representative will reach out the next business day.

Check Your Credit Reports
You’re entitled to one free credit report per year from each major credit bureau. Request yours at:

• annualcreditreport.com
• Call (877) 322-8228

Or contact credit bureaus directly: