The holiday season is a wonderful time to gather with family and friends. Unfortunately, it is also the season for scammers and cyber criminals.

The digital, online marketplace has increased convenience for consumers while also making it easier for scam artists to take your money or steal your identity.

I encourage all Southwest Michigan families to be mindful of steps they can take to help ensure that their valuable information is secure this holiday season.

For example, two simple rules will help you avoid falling for most scams: Never pay anything to collect a prize; and never give out your credit card number, bank account information or Social Security number over the phone or in an email. No legitimate contest or bank will ever ask for that type of personal information.

For online shoppers, it is critical to always keep your browser and security software up-to-date and to be wary of clicking on links on social media or in emails. ‘Tis the season for spamming emails designed to entice you to click on links that download malware on to your computer, which will then steal your vital personal information.

In fact, identity theft and credit fraud wreak havoc on millions of lives every year — impacting victims with legal fees and hours of their time spent trying to clear their name.

The most effective way to prevent credit fraud is to allow a person to place a freeze on their credit report, which effectively blocks the issuing of new credit.

Last year, my legislation was signed into law requiring all three major credit reporting agencies to allow Michigan residents to place a security freeze on their credit information. Since victims of this crime are not limited to adults, parents would also be able to protect their children.

To help consumers considering taking the precaution of a security freeze, the attorney general’s office has a consumer alert “Security Freeze Information for Michigan Consumers” on its website at www.michigan.gov/ag. Consumer alerts are located under the “Consumer Protection” tab and feature advice on numerous consumer issues, including identity theft and popular scams.

With the help of a few tips, some new tools and a little common sense, residents can help ensure that this Christmas is full of joy instead of headaches.

 

Sen. John Proos, R-St. Joseph, represents the 21st District, which includes Berrien and Cass counties and most of Van Buren County.