The most important precautions refer to the world of online banking, since hackers are experts in dealing with the Internet. So here are the most important tips to avoid scams and identity thefts:

• when you decide upon your password try to use a combination of numbers as well as letters and symbols. This will make it difficult to hack.
  
  
• never use your password on any other websites than your bank’s.
  
  
• use antivirus and firewall programs. Some Internet navigation programs automatically provide popup blockers, which is a great help in preventing Trojan or other viruses getting into your system and stealing your password. A firewall system easily controls and monitors your computer’s communication with the internet.
  
  
• never download programs from sites which require your banking information (password, client ID, PIN code). Suspicious looking sites can easily infect your PC with viruses.
  
  
• if you receive suspicious emails, send them to the trash. Your bank is unlikely to send you emails in which they ask you to log on to different websites using your account information. These can ask you to answer a questionnaire, participate in some kind of tombola, promotion etc. These fake emails are called phishing. Fraudsters can make the exact copy of your bank’s website and logo, so be always on the guard. They can claim a loss of your identity information due to some system breakdown, thus they are asking you to provide your information for re-entering it into the system. Never answer such emails! If you are undecided, call your bank and ask details about the respective message.
  
  
• install spyware programs, that is a filter which prevents junk emails getting into your inbox.
  
  
• change your password regularly, especially if you suspect that phishing has occurred.
  
  
• never believe emails in which strangers contact you and promise you a share from a large sum of money if you help them in the money’s international transfer. These are called scam mails, and their purpose is to get your precious personal details, account information etc. It is needless to say to not to believe in any unexpected lottery winnings for which you have to give out personal information and transfer administration fees. How can you win a lottery in which you never participated, after all?
  
  
• always check out the monthly credit card statements your bank sends you and if you notice any overspending contact your branch immediately
  
  
• before throwing away statements, bills, emails with your personal information destroy, or rip them up completely
  
  
• don’t carry all your identification documents with you, and never keep together credit cards and PIN numbers.
  
  
• when you move to a new house make sure your mails arrive to you safely, and then communicate your new address to your bank. You can also use a mail redirect service from your previous home.
  
  
• be careful with online shopping. Never buy good from suspicious sites, and don’t let yourself be impressed by the great promotions. Shop around and check out if a website is secure. It is secure if it protects your personal details by encrypting it.
  
  
• if you encounter problems with paying with your card, or withdrawing money from an ATM (for example you get back the card, but you don’t get the money) never leave the spot, but try to contact your bank, and ask for urgent intervention. Fraudsters can copy information through skimming, that is fitting a reader to the ATM’s card slot, or swiping your card twice at a shop. Hidden cameras can record the PIN numbers you type.

What to do if you become a victim of fraud?

The first and most important step is to report your situation to your bank. Contact the customer service immediately and cancel your card as soon as possible. Furthermore, you have to change all your passwords, and it is highly advisable to open a new account as well. It is always a good option to report your situation to the police as well.