Protecting Your Identity

The first thing we must realize is that cyber crime is not only common, it’s everywhere. If cyber crime were a legitimate business it would be worth about $1 trillion per year. While other industries are fighting to survive, cyber crime is booming. To make matters worse identity theft is not isolated to cyber crime. Identity thieves have used a variety of tactics to get their hands on your information.

1. On the Computer

In a new survey 85 percent of participants said they were aware cyber-criminals were actively stalking them. However 75 percent of them felt that firewall protection was enough to protect them. 62 percent of those thought anti-virus software was enough to stop spy-ware. Both of those groups are wrong, these are two important ways to help prevent cyber-crime, but you’re still at risk. You’ll have to take personal action to protect your identity

• Only purchase from well-known and established ecommerce sites.
• Be leery of pop ups saying you need to adjust you security settings.
• Be careful what you post on social media that may provide hints to passwords.
• Do not use the same password across multiple sites.
• Avoid opening unexpected or strange emails.
• Use secure browsing.

2. Your Wallet or Purse

Most people seem to think pickpocketing is a dead practice or just for the movies. Pickpocketing is alive and well and being used by identity thieves.

• Do not carry your social security card.
• Only carry the credit cards you’ll need.
• Keep important items in different pockets.
• Avoid large crowds.
• Know where your wallet or purse is at all times.

3. While On Vacation

Unfortunately, while on vacation you don’t get to take a vacation from keeping your information secure. Your home alarm system will protect your belongings, but not your identity. The odds of your identity being stolen while on vacation actually increase exponentially than when you’re home doing your normal routine.

Why? You’re not in your home and your stuff is in a hotel room. Plus while you’re on vacation your guard is down. You may not be familiar with the crimes that happen abroad and are not prepared to combat them.

• Secure expensive items and items with personal information in a hotel safe.
• Don’t carry more than you need with you.
• Do not leave your purse or wallet unattended while at the beach or swimming.
• Stop your mail and newspapers at home. It’s a dead give away you’re not home.

4. Everywhere else

You may not always be able to protect yourself. The people who steal your identity are professional criminals. Most banks and credit card companies offer some sort of protection for your finances. Enrolling in these programs can save your credit and money.

• Never leave receipts behind
• Shred old bills and bank statements
• Do not leave personal information at your desk
• Do not enter your social security number where it isn’t absolutely necessary.
• Always activate your home alarm system.

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