In order to protect yourself from identity theft, it is first important to develop a solid understanding of what it is. Note that, personally identifiable information includes your name, phone number, email address, passwords, social security number, and other essential details that can allow hackers or criminals to gain access to your medical records, financial accounts, or job prospects.
There are many criminals around the world that are trying to steal your information to commit fraud. Hence, it is important to follow some trusted tricks and tactics to stay safe from identity theft. Internet security experts from KeoneSoftware.com have highlighted a few methods to protect your data; following them will help you to be safe from getting victimized.
- Use strong passwords
Reports reveal that more than 50% of Americans do not use strong passwords to protect their digital devices. During a survey, 30% of people said that they feel hassle in setting up passwords for their devices. But having a password set on your smartphone and computer can help you stay safe from hacker’s attack. Experts advise not to keep same passwords for all devices and accounts. Because if a fraudster gains access to one password, it poses a major threat to your personal identity.
- Don’t click on suspicious links
One of the biggest causes of identity theft these days is clicking on suspicious links that come wrapped in text messages and emails. Identity thieves often try to hack your personal details through such links that look almost the same as some legit websites like your financial institution, credit card company, or mortgage lender, etc. But it is not good to click on such links that come from untrusted sources.
- Establish fraud alerts
Experts advise to set up potential fraud alerts on your gadgets. It will help you get immediate notification if someone tries to hack your accounts. Most of the data security companies and financial services around the world follow advanced protocols to control security breaches, and if they suspect some issue, they send immediate alerts to registered mobile or email id. It can help you to take immediate action to avoid the huge loss.
- Protect documents that contain personal information
One needs to follow trusted methods to store private records, including statements that include personal and financial details. It is not good to put such important details in your mailbox because identity thieves can easily steal them. Don’t even leave the paper trail of your retail receipts, credit card, and ATM behind. Destroy such receipts when you reach home.
- Don’t share your information
Be cautious about sharing your personal and financial information with anyone. Cybercriminals keep on trying to access personal information by tricking people; they attempt phishing attacks to know PIN numbers and secret passwords. The rule of thumb says that if someone calls you to know such details by mimicking your financial institution or any service provider, don’t share anything. Never authenticate yourself on a random call as you never know what is happening on the other side.
