Disable Bluetooth when not using
Bluetooth works similarly to Wi-Fi and cellular networks but performs simpler tasks at shorter ranges. You don’t need a cellular signal or network connection to use Bluetooth, and it doesn’t use data. And like any other connection, it’s not 100% safe.
Hackers and scammers must be close to you to use Bluetooth to hijack your phone. But in just about any public space, you’re arm’s length from strangers.
My advice: Turn off Bluetooth when you’re not using it. Keeping it active all the time makes your device more discoverable. As a bonus, keeping Bluetooth off will increase your device’s battery life.
On an iPhone, go to Settings > Bluetooth and switch it off. You can also swipe down from the top right of your screen to open the Control Center and tap the Bluetooth icon.
On Android phones. Go to Settings > Connected Devices > Connection Preferences > Bluetooth and switch it off. (Note: Steps vary based on your phone’s model. Look or search for Bluetooth if these steps don’t match your phone.)
Airplane mode also disables Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, among other things, so it works in a pinch – but you won’t receive calls or texts.
Swap your pen for a safer one
It’s kind of crazy to me that check fraud is increasing in a big way. Criminals go to mailboxes and target envelopes that look like checks or bill payments being mailed.
Check washing is the most common type of check fraud. This is where a someone steals a check from the mail and alters the payee’s name so they can cash it. They often change the amount of money as well.
If you need to write a check, use a security pen, also known as a checkwashing pen. Uni-ball 207 Series pens use specially formulated ink that gets trapped into the paper, making it difficult for criminals to wash or erase the ink on a check.
To be extra safe, skip the mailbox and take your checks directly to your local post office.
Be aware of your surroundings
Thieves still use old-school tactics they think we all forgot about. We’re too smart for that, right?
Keep your purse and wallet close. Only bring the credit or debit cards you’ll be using.
Be aware of who’s around when you pull out your phone, and hide your screen as you type in your PIN.
Leave your Social Security card, birth certificate and passport at home unless you truly need them.
Shred old bills and financial records before tossing them.
Review your credit report and bank statements regularly.
If you get scammed, resist the urge to stay quiet. Report fraud, scams and bad business practices to the Federal Trade Commission. If you gave out your Social Security number, contact the Social Security Administration immediately.