Tips to protect your information this holiday season

Published October 16, 2021
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Couple with Christmas hats on

With the holiday season just around the corner, many retailers are vying for your business. But scam artists may also be trying to make a sale by stealing your money or profiting from your personal information. Check out these tips for busy holiday shoppers. 

Online

  • Look for indicators that a retailer’s website is secure, such as a lock icon on the status bar or a web address beginning with https://.
  • Use caution when shopping at a Wi-Fi hot spot. If you’re on an unsecured network, other users can see what you see – and what you send.
  • Know the seller before you buy. Remember if a deal looks too good to be true, it probably is.
  • Don’t click on pop-up ads or links in unsolicited emails.
  • Don’t provide personal information via email. Instead, call the business at a number you know to be correct to confirm the request.
  • Consider checking your accounts online frequently so that you can spot potentially fraudulent activity more quickly.
  • Create unique, hard-to-guess passwords for each of your online accounts and change them often.
  • Make sure the virus scan detection software on your computer is current.

Out and about

  • Carry only essential IDs such as your driver’s license and health card. Leave your Social Insurance Number (SIN) card in a safe place.
  • Do not let private organizations make copies of your IDs unless there is a legitimate need and you know your information will be protected. The information on the copy is as valuable as the original document.
  • During transactions, tap, insert or swipe your cards yourself. If you must hand over your debit/credit card, never lose sight of it.
  • Don’t carry your wallet in your back pocket or in an open purse slung over your shoulder.

For a better understanding of the growing number of scams targeting investors and their money, visit Fraud Awareness & Prevention, under Market News and Insights at edwardjones.ca.

If you believe your identity has been stolen, contact the following:

If you’ve been victimized by a scam involving your Edward Jones account, contact your Edward Jones advisor for further guidance.