Want to Keep Your Money Safe From Fraudsters? Stop Making These Mistakes

An unassuming ATM at the back of a gas station. An unexpected text from your bank. A data breach. What do these things have in common? They're all ways fraudsters can steal your personal identifiable data and your money. US consumers lost $12.5 billion to fraud last year, according to the Federal Trade Commission. Fraud can take on many forms, including scams where the victim willingly sends money under false pretenses, identity theft and unauthorized bank or credit card transactions. Anyone can be a target of fraud, regardless of age or other demographics. It's even happened to me in the past. While certain behaviors can increase your risk, fraud can also happen due to factors beyond your control. How fraudsters steal your information and money A lot of fraud occurs when thieves gain access to a victim's bank account or credit card information and make unauthorized purchases or transfers. But how do they get that information in the first place? Here's a rundown of the biggest thr ... Read full article.