A Financial Checklist for Safeguarding Your Online Accounts
Feeling overwhelmed? Let’s simplify. Here is a step-by-step checklist to guide you through the process of securing your digital financial life. Tackle one item at a time. Each step you complete makes you significantly safer.
First, perform a password audit. Make a list of your most important online accounts: bank, credit cards, retirement funds, email, and your Social Security portal. Go to each site and create a new, strong, unique password for each one. Write them down and store them in a secure physical location (like a locked safe) or, even better, start using a password manager.
Second, enable two-factor authentication (2FA). While you are logged into those important accounts, find the security settings. Follow the instructions to turn on 2FA. This is the single most effective action you can take to protect your accounts from being taken over.
Third, review your privacy settings on social media. Go to your Facebook or other social media accounts and check who can see your information. Scammers often piece together personal details from public profiles. Limit your posts and personal information (like your birthday and hometown) to be visible only to “Friends.”
Fourth, check your devices for updates. On your computer, smartphone, and tablet, go into the settings and check for software updates. If any are available, install them. While you are there, make sure you have reputable antivirus software installed and that it is up to date.
Finally, practice ongoing vigilance. Check your bank and credit card statements regularly for any unauthorized charges. Consider a credit freeze, which restricts access to your credit report, making it much harder for thieves to open new accounts in your name. For information on federal taxes and identity theft, the IRS provides specific guidance for taxpayers.
