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VRS is committed to keeping your information secure. You can help by staying savvy on common fraud tactics and taking measures to protect yourself online.

Protect Your Devices and Data

Your personal devices, such as desktops, laptops or phones could be targeted by malware. Malware is a piece of software code that can affect stored files and programs within your device. You can protect yourself by installing an antivirus program on all the devices you use.

Be sure to keep devices such as your smartphone up to date, as many software updates deliver critical security fixes.

Secure your home Wi-Fi network with a strong passphrase and avoid using public Wi-Fi connections – especially when shopping online or logging in to your bank account.

Secure Your myVRS Account. Don’t forget – register your myVRS account within 90 days of your hire date. This helps prevent someone else from attempting to claim your account fraudulently. VRS will lock your myVRS account for your protection if it’s not claimed during this timeframe. You will have to call to have your account unlocked in order to register.

Secure Your Defined Contribution Account Access. Be sure to register your defined contribution account, if applicable, through Account Access.

Log in to your VRS accounts at least every 90 days to change your passphrases and ensure your information is accurate.

Don’t Bite on Phishing Attempts

Phishing is a form of social engineering where attackers attempt to acquire information, such as usernames, passwords and credit card details by posing as a reputable company or entity. Tactics typically include using email or text messages to trick you into clicking on malicious links, which could install malware on your device or lead you to a spoofed website.

Look out for these red flags to identify and prevent phishing attempts:

• Messages with typos or bad grammar.
• A sense of urgency. For example, phishing messages may claim that your online banking account requires immediate attention or that your streaming service is about to expire.
• Unknown senders or email addresses that resemble a legitimate company’s address.
• Links to strange websites. Messages may come from compromised devices or accounts that belong to people you know.

More Tips to Reduce Risk

When you change your mailing address, phone number or email address, update your VRS account(s) immediately to ensure we reach only you with sensitive communication.

If you’ve not registered your online mySocialSecurity account, take time to visit Social Security and take ownership of your personal account.

Head to myVRS Financial Wellness for short articles and videos related to security under the Consumer Protection and Identity Theft Topics.

You can learn more about VRS’ role in keeping your information secure and find more online safety tips at varetire.org/securitycenter.