We hear about it all the time. Maybe it has happened to someone you know; maybe it’s already happened to you. I’m talking about having your identity hijacked by the millions of unscrupulous individuals on a global basis who attempt to track down and seize control of your personal information every day. You have probably already taken a few proactive steps to secure your information, but there’s always something that you just didn’t consider and it’s that single lapse in your personal security that just might be your undoing.
Many of us now pay all of our bills and even do a large portion of our personal shopping online. Most websites offer a certain degree of security; your bank, online retail stores, and travel services, but you should always be weary when inputting personal data such as credit card, driver’s license and social security numbers. When you are on a website, look for the “lock” icon in the browser status bar. Also be sure to notice whether or not the online address is preceded by an “https” versus the normal “http.” This will indicate that you, at least, have a secure connection. Remember, these indicators do not insure complete security but without them present there is assurance of an absolute lack of security on the site.
If a site you are on asks you to register with your personal information, only enter the information that is required. And if there is a checkbox or another way to opt out of sharing your information with other individuals or companies, make sure you do so.
I got an email the other day that looked as though it came directly from my bank. I later found out that it didn’t. It was asking me to complete information for something I didn’t remember inquiring about. So, I picked up the phone and called the bank immediately and they told me that they will NEVER send an email asking for such sensitive information. Your bank probably has the same policy. This email asked for my my social security number, bank account number, my address, phone number even a password. Don’t fall for these “phishing” emails – it could be the start of a personal financial disaster. By the way, Internet Explorer 7 and Firefox 2 both have the ability to detect fraudulent websites. If you use these browsers, make sure the function is activated.
Some banks now offer something called “one-shot” credit card numbers. These are specific numbers tied to your “real” credit or debit card but only valid for a single transaction. Check with your bank on what special security functions they can offer you.
Identity loss isn’t just about online security either. The safeguarding of your mail, receipts and documents is also extremely important. Never carry your social security card with you in your wallet. If your wallet is lost or stolen the thief would have instant access to the most important set of numbers in your life.
If you don’t have one now, go out and buy a shredder. When you discard old credit card statements in the trash, for instance, you want to make sure that no one will be able to read the numbers and information ever again. Shred everything – don’t give anyone the opportunity to steal your information.
Is your personal mail secure? Make sure that no one can get into your mailbox at your home or apartment. If someone takes your mail they will have access to a plethora of information that could be very damaging to your financial security. You need to keep credit card offers, credit card bills, or banking statements out of the hands of potential identity thieves.
Americans are a pretty trusting society but we need to get smarter when it comes to protecting our personal information. Monitor your credit reports often; review your credit card and banking statements carefully to make sure you recognize the merchants and purchases before your pay the bill. Start being very defensive when it comes to your personal information and by doing so could save yourself a lot of pain, worry, time and money in the future.
