1. Never provide personal financial information over the phone or internet, especially Social Security and account numbers or passwords, unless you initiated the contact.

2. Never click on the link provided in an email that appears fraudulent. It may contain a virus.

3. Don’t be intimidated by an email or caller warning of dire consequences if you don’t provide or verify financial information.

4. If you believe the contact is legitimate, visit their website by typing in the site address or using a bookmarked page instead of a link provided in the email.

5. If you fall victim to an attack, act immediately to protect yourself. Alert your financial institution. Place fraud alerts on your credit files. Monitor your credit files and account statements closely.

6. Call the Federal Trade Commission at 1-877-IDTHEFT to report any suspicious emails, calls or text messages.