NAUPD

Verification Steps

• Conduct thorough research on the individual or entity before engaging in financial transactions.
• Seek recommendations or reviews from trusted sources about the person or organization

Public Platforms Caution

• Be wary of conducting financial transactions solely through public platforms or forums.
• Avoid sharing sensitive financial information openly on social media platforms.

Contact Methods

• Use verified contact information from official websites or directories to reach out and confirm the legitimacy of the seller, charity, company, or organization.
• Be cautious if the only contact information is through email or an unfamiliar online platform.

Check Regulatory Compliance

• Verify if the entity is registered with relevant regulatory bodies or has proper certifications.
• Check for any history of complaints or scams associated with the entity through consumer protection agencies.

Understanding Credit Card Protections

• Familiarize yourself with the specific consumer protections offered by your credit card company.
• Know the process for disputing charges and the maximum liability in case of unauthorized transactions.

Research Payment Platforms

• Choose reputable and secure payment platforms for online transactions.
• Research the security measures implemented by the payment service provider to protect user data.

Contextual Information Sharing

• Only provide personal information if it is relevant to the transaction or interaction.
• Question requests for unnecessary personal details and consider the context of the information being requested.

Secure Communication Channels

• Ensure that communication channels are secure before sharing any sensitive information.
• Look for “https” in the website address and use encrypted communication methods when providing details.

Educational Resources

• Regularly educate yourself about the latest online scams and fraud prevention measures through reputable sources.
• Utilize educational resources provided by consumer protection agencies and cybersecurity organizations.

Critical Evaluation

• Develop a critical mindset when encountering unsolicited emails, messages, or online offers.
• Train yourself to recognize red flags such as overly enticing offers or urgent demands.

Recognizing Manipulative Tactics

• Be aware of tactics employed by scammers, such as creating a sense of urgency or fear.
• Take time to verify information and consult with trusted individuals before making any decisions.

Researching Opportunities

• Investigate and research any claims of easy money or benefits with minimal effort.
• Look for online reviews or testimonials from independent sources to assess the legitimacy of such opportunities.

Requesting Missing Information

• If information about products or services is incomplete, request additional details from the seller.
• Be cautious if the seller is unwilling or unable to provide comprehensive information.

Utilize Credit Monitoring Services

• Consider using reputable credit monitoring services to receive alerts about any suspicious activities on your accounts.
• Regularly review credit reports and address any discrepancies promptly.