Simple ways to ensure your identity is protected

Posted on October 4, 2013

The 2013 Identity Fraud Report released in February by Javelin Strategy & Research found 12.6 million victims of identity fraud in the United States over the past year. That equates to 1 victim every 3 seconds. Protect your identity using these simple steps.

1. All your wireless devices, including your cell phone should require a password. Passwords should include capital letters and symbols and be updated regularly. Be sure to lock your desktop every time you step away from your computer.
2. Don’t opt in or give companies permission to share your information.
3. Be cautious of what you share on social media and do not post information that someone can use to authenticate your identity.
4. Sensitive documents should be shredded.
5. Store all your credit card information in a safety deposit box so you can cancel them in case your information is stolen.
6. Never give out personal information over the phone, through the mail or online unless you are absolutely certain of the source.
7. Only work with reputable online companies that have secure lines when making purchases.
8. Monitor bank and credit card statements and get a free credit report annually.

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