What you can do to help protect your personal info
Create unique passwords
Use a different password for every account. The longer the password, the more difficult it is to hack.
Never include personal info or common words and phrases
Combine 3 or more words together to create a phrase that’s meaningful only to you
Include numbers, symbols, and both UPPERCASE and lowercase letters
Review privacy and security settings
Configure your privacy and security settings across all social media to enable additional controls that help ensure your email address and phone number are not being shared publicly. Limit personal posts and wait until you get home to share travel pics.
Other ways to help protect your data
Check your credit reports regularly
If you notice changes, incorrect information, or suspicious activity, take action immediately. Fraud alerts are free and don’t affect your credit score. Plus, they can be removed at any time.
How to contact credit bureausMonitor changes to your financial accounts
If you notice that one of your accounts has been modified in a way that’s unfamiliar, change your password and check activity for any unauthorized transactions.
How to change your PayPal passwordDon’t forget physical docs and cards
Lost or stolen wallets, checkbooks, and credit cards can make identity theft a reality, so leave non-essential cards and documents at home. And shred documents with sensitive info.
Keep your devices updated
Stay current with software security updates on all your devices and only download trusted apps and operating systems. Don’t forget about your kids’ phones, tablets, and laptops, too.
How to protect your devicesBe cautious on public Wi-Fi networks
Don’t access bank accounts or provide personal info when using a public Wi-Fi network—like those at coffee shops, hotels, and airports—because the connection isn’t encrypted and your info can be hijacked by scammers. Virtual private networks (VPN) or mobile data connections can add encryption.
How to safely use public Wi-Fi networksStay vigilant with email and text
Any request for urgent or immediate action, especially from an odd or unfamiliar sender, should be avoided. Never open attachments or click links, even if it’s to unsubscribe. If you’re not 100% certain who’s emailing or texting, don’t reply.
Spot phishing and fake communicationsUse secure methods of payment whenever possible
Payment systems like PayPal make transactions secure to help protect your personal financial info.
Sign up for a PayPal accountMore ways to help safeguard your personal info
Learn more
Knowledge helps keep you in control and your data secure.
Understand the difference between Send Money types
Make sure you know the recipient when sending funds using Friends and Family.
About Send Money typesSign up for transaction alerts
Knowing about any and all account activity can help you quickly spot something unusual.
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