Prevent Identity Theft: 10 Tips to Protect Your Personal Information
Identity theft has become increasingly common in recent years. As our personal and financial information moves online, thieves have more opportunities to access and misuse our data. Arm yourself with knowledge to outsmart identity thieves and prevent personal data misuse. This article provides 10 tips to help safeguard your identity and reduce your risk.
Watch Out for Phishing Scams
Phishing refers to emails, phone calls, or text messages pretending to be from a legitimate company in order to trick you into sharing personal information. Never click on suspicious links or attachments. Verify the source before providing sensitive data.
Check Your Credit Report Regularly
Review your credit report from each bureau annually for any accounts or inquiries you don’t recognize. Checking regularly makes it easier to spot fraud early. Consider setting a calendar reminder.
Use Strong Passwords
Weak passwords make an identity thief’s job easy. Create unique, complex passwords for every account that contain upper and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. Consider using a password manager.
Shred Sensitive Documents
Go on a shredding spree. Any document containing personal or financial details should be crosscut shredded before disposal to prevent dumpster divers from accessing your data.
Safeguard Your Social Security Number
Your SSN functions as your secret passcode to credit, employment, and benefits. Never carry your social security card in your wallet. Only provide your SSN when absolutely necessary.
Beware of Public Wi-Fi Networks
Public networks in coffee shops or airports lack encryption, allowing hackers to view your online activity and sensitive data. Avoid logging into personal accounts over public Wi-Fi. Consider using a VPN.
Toggle Privacy Settings
Adjust your privacy and security settings on social media and devices. Disable location tracking when possible and set accounts to private. Limit personal information shared publicly.
Watch Out for “Shoulder Surfers”
Shield keypads or screens when entering passwords or sensitive data in public spaces to block “shoulder surfers” from spying. Take privacy precautions like facing walls or lowering voices when discussing confidential information.
Freeze Your Credit
Placing a credit freeze restricts access to your credit report, making it harder for identity thieves to open fraudulent accounts. Freezing credit is free and does not affect your existing accounts.
Review Your Medical Bills & EOBs Carefully
Check that all provider charges and services match with what was actually received. Fraudsters sometimes use stolen insurance info to obtain medical services. Report any discrepancies immediately.
Stay vigilant and trust your instincts. Implementing even a few of these actionable tips can help prevent identity theft and reduce your risk of personal data misuse. Check them off as you put safeguards in place. With smart precautions, you can outmaneuver fraudsters.
