While UPS does what it can to minimise the risk of fraud, you should realise that you are the first line of defence in protecting yourself. Here are some additional steps to help prevent email and Internet-related fraud:

• Never respond to or act upon emails, or select web links from any unknown source that requires you to provide, update or verify personal, financial or other confidential information.
• Be wary of any suspicious emails or phone calls asking for you to validate your UPS account information.
• Use a secure Internet browser.
• Do not give out your UPS.com ID or password.
• Change your password regularly.
• Create strong passwords by using a combination of letters and numbers.
• Always use up-to-date virus protection software and consider using spyware detection programmes.
• Equip your computer with either a software or hardware firewall.
• Do not access confidential information at Internet cafes, public libraries, etc.
• If you are using a wireless device, be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions on establishing the services and settings to ensure a protective level of security.

Here are some additional steps to help protect against reference number tracking fraud:

• Be wary of any suspicious emails or phone calls asking for you to validate tracking numbers with reference numbers.
• Do not give out tracking numbers to unknown parties.
• Create unique reference numbers by using a combination of letters and numbers.
• Change reference numbers frequently.

Being aware and protecting your sensitive information is the best way to avoid fraud.