Hacking happens when anyone tries to steal valuable information online. It may be your identity or personal data or money.

Hackers may pose as someone you know like your bank, a grandchild or the IRS and use sophisticated schemes to gain your trust. Using emails, phone calls or texts, a hacker may convince you to share information.

Medicare beneficiaries are also targets for COVID-19 vaccine scams. A hacker may contact a senior via email, phone or in person and ask for personal or medical information to enroll a senior in a fraudulent vaccine trial.

By following a few best practices, you can learn to protect yourself and your family. Even if you’ve been a victim of hacking, you can still learn more and feel confident about being online.

If you think you’ve been a victim of hacking, be sure to share your worries with a loved one or someone from your CenterWell care team.

Outdated or overused passwords are more vulnerable to hacking. Check security features, change passwords regularly, and use 2-factor authentication when you can to increase safety.

Trust your personal data like social security number and birthdate with only your closest family members.

Pop-ups, ads and attachments can appear suddenly. Pause before responding to offers or subtle threats.

If you’ve been a victim, it’s common to feel shame or fear. Talk to your family or CenterWell care team about concerns.

It’s OK to be frustrated by technology. When you start feeling overwhelmed, take a break, turn off your device, and come back when you have more time and energy, or when you have a friend or caregiver to help.