Paige Schaffer | Source | CEO at Iris Powered by Generali

Paige warns that "unrecognized accounts or sudden credit score drops" may indicate fraud. If suspected, contact creditors and place a fraud alert with credit bureaus. Consider a credit freeze to block new accounts. Continuous monitoring and investing in an identity protection program are crucial for safeguarding your credit and personal information.

Paige emphasizes that while older adults may not be scammed more often, they face higher-stakes scams. She advises skepticism towards unsolicited messages and recommends verifying contacts directly. "Education is truly the best prevention method," she notes. The FTC offers valuable resources to stay informed about scam tactics.

Paige explains, "Cyber hygiene is like dental hygiene for your digital life." Regular updates, strong passwords, and multifactor authentication (MFA) are key. Use antivirus software, password managers, and VPNs for added security. Stay informed about the latest cyber threats and scams. Simple steps like these can significantly enhance your online safety.