Beware of Identity Theft!

It’s on the news almost every week – a major retailer’s database is compromised by hackers and confidential customer information becomes hijacked. Even if the customer’s information isn’t compromised, the concern that is can be remains and everyone is alarmed. Identity theft continues to become increasingly concerning in today’s digital age. Here are a few tips on how to prevent your identity from being stolen:

1. Change passwords often.  Create a unique password for all your accounts and change them often – at least several times a year. Use a combination of numbers, letters, characters and upper/lower case so it won’t be easily guessed.
2. Check accounts regularly. Review all your accounts at least monthly, including utilities and other services that are billed automatically. Even those credit card accounts that aren’t being used – make sure you are aware of all charges and amounts. Also, don’t forget online shopping accounts like Amazon or EBay where your credit card or banking information is stored.
3. Review your credit reports. Stay on top of your credit activity and make sure you are aware of all accounts in your name. You can get a free copy of your credit report every 12 months from each credit reporting company. Visit www.annualcreditreport.com today.
4. Protect your social security number. Your social security number is used by many organizations for identity. If someone requests it, ask them why they need it. Don’t automatically put it on every application or form you complete. This applies to your children too as their social security number can be used for identity fraud.
5. Don’t click unfamiliar links. It happens every day – an email appears to be from a known organization asking you to login and verify your information. Click the link and you’re prompted to enter your login and password. . . then it happens. Your account information is now accessible by a hacker.  Watch carefully and if you have concerns close your browser and go directly to the website.
6. Don’t store your information online. Many companies let you keep your credit card or bank information online to expedite the shopping experience. Avoid doing this to minimize your exposure. Sure, it may take longer but you will know that your information is a little safer.
7. Be careful with free Wi-Fi. Free Wi-Fi is becoming the norm almost everywhere today. Just be careful when you use these networks and make sure you have security and virus protection on your devices when possible. And definitely don’t access financial accounts or online shopping that requires logins as your data could be compromised by lurking hackers.