**Consumer Alert** CFO Jimmy Patronis: 5 Tips to Avoid Fraud after Facebook Data Breach
12/20/2019
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — With the recent discovery of more than 267 million Facebook users’ names, phone numbers, and other identifying information being exposed on the unsecured dark web, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis warns consumers of the potential for fraud and provides tips on how to protect your personal and financial information online.
CFO Jimmy Patronis said, "Hackers are working overtime to steal your personal and financial information. With news that Facebook has suffered yet another data breach, it’s important that you do everything you can to safeguard your personal information online. Florida has more than 9 million active Facebook users, and you must stay aware of these threats to help protect your identity.”
5 Tips to Prevent Social Media Scams
1. Exercise good password management. It is important to update your passwords whenever you hear of a data exposure. Update your passwords periodically at least once every 6 months.
2. Do not accept unknown message request. If you don't know a requester or the account looks fake, do not accept the request to message. Report and block fake accounts immediately.
3. Use caution when posting on Facebook. Hackers are looking to steal and sell your personal information. By limiting the amount of personal information you post online, you are reducing your chances of being at risk for fraud and scams.
4. Never leave devices unattended. The physical security of your devices is important, just as their technical security. Remember to lock your laptop, phone, or tablet when you leave them for any amount of time.
5. Notify your financial institutions if you see signs of fraud. If you do fall victim to a scam, contact your financial institutions (bank, credit union, credit card companies, etc.) to alert them and protect your identity.
CFO Jimmy Patronis said, "Hackers are working overtime to steal your personal and financial information. With news that Facebook has suffered yet another data breach, it’s important that you do everything you can to safeguard your personal information online. Florida has more than 9 million active Facebook users, and you must stay aware of these threats to help protect your identity.”
5 Tips to Prevent Social Media Scams
1. Exercise good password management. It is important to update your passwords whenever you hear of a data exposure. Update your passwords periodically at least once every 6 months.
2. Do not accept unknown message request. If you don't know a requester or the account looks fake, do not accept the request to message. Report and block fake accounts immediately.
3. Use caution when posting on Facebook. Hackers are looking to steal and sell your personal information. By limiting the amount of personal information you post online, you are reducing your chances of being at risk for fraud and scams.
4. Never leave devices unattended. The physical security of your devices is important, just as their technical security. Remember to lock your laptop, phone, or tablet when you leave them for any amount of time.
5. Notify your financial institutions if you see signs of fraud. If you do fall victim to a scam, contact your financial institutions (bank, credit union, credit card companies, etc.) to alert them and protect your identity.