Taking proactive steps to guard against financial fraud is a good way to prevent the heartache and stress that comes with losing money to scams.

Here are some common steps you and your loved ones can take to prevent falling victim to those trying to separate you from your hard-earned money:

• Educate Yourself and Loved Ones: Talk to family members, especially older individuals, about how to recognize and avoid scams.
• Secure Your Accounts: Use strong, unique passwords and enable two-factor authentication for online accounts.
• Verify Requests: Always confirm with a trusted and verified source before sending money or sharing personal information.
• Stay Informed: The tactics of scammers evolve constantly. Regularly update yourself on the latest scams by following news reports, government websites, or consumer protection agencies, including the Nebraska Department of Banking and Finance.

If you or a loved one think you may the victim of a financial scam, submit a complaint to NDBF.