One’s identity can be stolen in various ways, with most instances happening online. Whether you’re doing some online shopping or checking financial statements, identity theft syndicates are gaining access to your personal info with just a few clicks of a mouse. Fortunately, there are ways you can protect yourself.
THE DOS AND DON’TS
- Don’t carry sensitive documents in your wallet or purse unless absolutely necessary.
- Be careful about how you get rid of your waste. If possible, shred any sensitive documents such as bank statements, invoices, confidential correspondence and other documents that contain your personal info before throwing these items away. If you don’t have a shredder, you can black out all the sensitive info with a permanent marker. Make sure to black out the details on both the front and back of the page.
- Don’t provide any personal info such as your ID numbers, address, PIN numbers, passwords, email addresses or contact numbers over the phone unless you are absolutely sure it’s a legitimate call. If in doubt, rather go directly to the bank or business and speak to someone in person.
- Don’t use your cell number, address, ID number or any other important details as passwords. Here are some tips on how to create stronger passwords.
- Avoid doing any online banking, shopping or sensitive online correspondence over a Wi-Fi hotspot. Always stick to internet connections that you know. You can find more tips on enjoying safer online shopping here.
- Pay attention to what you share on your various social media profiles. Don’t make details such as your address, cell number, date of birth or personal email address available online unless absolutely necessary.
- Change your passwords regularly (about every 3 to 6 months) to ensure your various online accounts are secure. Activate two-factor authentication on all online accounts where possible. This will ensure you’re notified the moment someone tries to log in to your account.
- Store any sensitive documents in a safe place.
- Never assume any online correspondence is private. Always be extra-vigilant and try and avoid sending highly sensitive documents via email. You can better protect yourself against email phishing scams by following these simple steps.
- Regularly check your accounts and bank statements. This will help you pick up on any suspect transactions, enabling you to act fast.
- If your ID or driver’s licence gets stolen, it’s important to report it to the police immediately.
STEPS TO TAKE
Should you suspect you’ve become a victim of identity theft, it’s important to take action as soon as possible. Not only could this save you money, but it could help authorities potentially track down the fraudsters sooner.
- Report a case of identity theft and fraud to the police as well as your bank and any other institutions where your identity was fraudulently used.
- Freeze your accounts to prevent the criminals from causing further harm.
- Change your passwords and PINs immediately.
If you’re unsure whether your personal info has been stolen, one of the largest credit bureaus in the world, TransUnion, allows consumers to run a free credit and identity theft check once every year.
Sources: TransUnion | SABRIC