WISCONSIN (NBC 26) — As financial technology is changing to bring better convenience to users, scammers are also changing the way they try to access your accounts, according to a representative from the state Department of Financial Institutions (DFI).
“As financial technology has evolved, it has given consumers the ability to shop, save, and invest online using their phones, tablets, and computers,” said DFI Secretary Kathy Blumenfeld. “These modern financial conveniences, however, come with risk. Scammers are always looking for new ways to get into a consumer’s wallet, electronically or otherwise.”
Blumenfeld gives several tips to help Wisconsin investors better understand potential online threats and protect themselves from cyber criminals.
Blumenfeld said you should be cautious in the way you use the conveniences offered by new and evolving financial technologies, especially as they have become more widely used during the pandemic. A bit of caution can keep virtual distance between scammers and your money.
Blumenfeld provided an overview on some of the most common threats to online accounts including data breaches, phishing, skimming, and public wifi scams. You can find more information on these threats and learn steps you can take to better protect yourself and your financial information by CLICKING HERE.
According to Blumenfeld, the bottom line is to be careful when disclosing personal information online and to avoid doing it in a public setting at all costs. Additionally, check account statements regularly and contact your financial institution if you find anything suspicious.
Before making any financial decisions, the DFI encourages you to do your research and contact the department at (608) 266-9555 with any questions you might have.
For more information on current scams, consumer laws, and publications visit the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection website.
