Keep Your Computer Safe

Most of us rely on computers daily to process information for our business and personal use. But shopping and banking online increases the potential of becoming a victim of identity theft. Account information is stored on the computer after making transactions. Without regular updates and protective measures to prevent a cyber-attack or mechanical failure, your personal information may be vulnerable. Security software can help protect your computer from the latest viruses and unique passwords help you avoid getting hacked. Click here to read more about essential steps to keep your computer safe.

Beware of utility scams

If you receive a phone call claiming your electricity will be turned off within hours unless a payment is provided immediately - be aware that this may be a scam. The Better Business Bureau is warning consumers in Florida about a recent bill payment scam that is targeting utility customers. The caller will ask for a payment from a prepaid debit card. This scam has recently targeted electric customers and could target cable and gas customers as well. Be suspicious of callers who demand immediate payment for any reason and never give out your personal information. Hang up and call your utility company directly to confirm if there is a real problem with your account. Click here to read more tips on how to avoid becoming a victim of this scam.

Learn how to become 'Scam Smart'

If you watch the news regularly, you probably have seen warnings about scam artists who try to trick people by offering something that seems too good to be true. In honor of Older Americans Month in May, a free workshop to warn seniors about scams will take place on Thursday, May 9 in Venice. The Sheriff’s Office has partnered with Florida Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater in offering "Operation S.A.F.E., Be Scam Smart," a workshop for seniors, their families, and caregivers. Attendees will learn how to protect themselves to avoid financial scams and fraud. A morning and afternoon session of the program will be offered at the Gulf Coast Community Foundation.
To make sure your savings are protected, register now for this event at www.MyFloridaCFO.com/SAFE. Please share this workshop information with family members and friends.

Beware of Bogus Tax Preparers

The final days to file 2012 income tax returns are quickly approaching. If you are looking for help with filing your tax forms, be careful who you trust with your personal and financial information. The IRS has issued a warning for Florida taxpayers who may be enticed by people posing as tax preparers and offering huge refunds. Scammers may take your information and file a false claim – often without you even knowing it! Always ask legitimate preparers about their credentials and make sure you sign the form and take a copy with you. Click here to learn about other tax scams.

Use Your Smartphone to Help Protect Your Home

As another busy tourism season winds down in Sarasota County, many residents are beginning to think about summer travel plans. Wouldn’t it be convenient to be able to monitor your home while you are away? Smartphones consistently keep us linked to each other using the latest technology. And now they can provide an inexpensive way to secure your home. Wireless security cameras are becoming more affordable and you can receive security alerts and see live video using your phone or tablet!  There are even systems that will notify you when a pipe breaks or the carbon dioxide levels in your home are too high. Learn more about the latest home security systems available and check out where to find them at Techlicious.com.

Tips to Avoid Rental Scams

Imagine... scouring the internet and finding your dream vacation at exactly the right price! You book

it and wait with eager anticipation. Finally, you travel to your destination and arrive at the door - only to learn the house or condo was never for rent? Believe it or not it is happening in several popular beach communities in Florida. Even if you hadn't paid a cent, imagine the inconvenience of finding a last minute place to stay? To avoid being scammed on a vacation rental: use a reputable web site that screens and verifies the properties they list. Next, do your due diligence by looking up the exact address online and verifying it through multiple sources. Finally, if you are asked for a deposit, never wire funds but use a credit card with a proven dispute-resolution department. Here are more tips from the Federal Trade Commission.

April is Child Abuse Protection Month

April is Child Abuse Prevention Month, and all citizens have a responsibility to protect children from abuse. Child abuse is a serious problem in Florida, where there were 53,000 cases of child abuse and neglect last year. What's worse, two children died from abuse and neglect every week in 2012. The good news is that child abuse can be prevented! If you suspect a case of child abuse call 1 (800) 96-ABUSE to report it, or in an emergency call 911. In Sarasota County we have a valuable resource in the Child Protection Center. Visit www.cpcsarasota.org to look for special events this month or to learn how you can help. Resources are also available for parents who need assistance managing stressful family situations.