Identity theft is a crime. This involves stealing and using identity of another person without he or she having consent to do so. Usually this behavior is done in order to access credit and other resources. Using the best identity theft protection is recommended and a major priority for many people, as victims can face consequences for the criminal acts of thieves.
This type of behavior relates to the using of the social security number, name, identification number or credit card account information from a person without their consent. Often times this is done in order to commit fraud and other related crimes. Most victims do not become aware of this illegal activity until after it has been done and ruined their identity or financial standing.
In recent years, studies have shown an increase in this kind of criminal behavior. Most thieves retrieve access to such personal information is through phone or email scams, stolen wallets or credit cards, documents and receipts found in the trash, and unsecure computers or wireless networks. Once they have received accessed to the information, they use it in order to open new accounts or cards, file tax returns and even purchase goods.
Luckily, there are many ways a person can safeguard such personal information. Some techniques or tips will come at a cost. Still, there are many resources that offer free information on the topic of protection.
In the modern times, the Internet and computers are used for all types of personal activities. People should set passwords with high strength and switch them out frequently. It is recommended to avoid passwords that can be easily guessed, are common or include birth dates, pet names, maiden names, and school or work names. A good password that is considered safe may include a couple capital letters, as well as a numeric or other character. Make sure to change out the password from time to time.
Be cautious of what you share with others, especially on social media websites. A lot of personal information is shared through these sources and can be used in order to authenticate who a person is. Avoid posting phone numbers, SSN, birth place, birth date or address on these sites.
Likewise, make sure that personal information and important documents remain secure. Most people place this type of information on their computers. Those who do should make sure these devices have anti-virus, firewall and anti-spyware installed for security. Hard, physical documents with sensitive info should be shredded before they are disposed of. Individuals should also protect their mobile devices, check credit report on an annual basis and avoid scammers.
If you believe that your identity is stolen: place a hold on major accounts, change passwords and file a complaint with the necessary officials. Even those utilizing the best identity theft protection might find themselves in this type of situation. There are many free resources that provide various tips and techniques related to safeguarding sensitive information from criminals.
This type of behavior relates to the using of the social security number, name, identification number or credit card account information from a person without their consent. Often times this is done in order to commit fraud and other related crimes. Most victims do not become aware of this illegal activity until after it has been done and ruined their identity or financial standing.
In recent years, studies have shown an increase in this kind of criminal behavior. Most thieves retrieve access to such personal information is through phone or email scams, stolen wallets or credit cards, documents and receipts found in the trash, and unsecure computers or wireless networks. Once they have received accessed to the information, they use it in order to open new accounts or cards, file tax returns and even purchase goods.
Luckily, there are many ways a person can safeguard such personal information. Some techniques or tips will come at a cost. Still, there are many resources that offer free information on the topic of protection.
In the modern times, the Internet and computers are used for all types of personal activities. People should set passwords with high strength and switch them out frequently. It is recommended to avoid passwords that can be easily guessed, are common or include birth dates, pet names, maiden names, and school or work names. A good password that is considered safe may include a couple capital letters, as well as a numeric or other character. Make sure to change out the password from time to time.
Be cautious of what you share with others, especially on social media websites. A lot of personal information is shared through these sources and can be used in order to authenticate who a person is. Avoid posting phone numbers, SSN, birth place, birth date or address on these sites.
Likewise, make sure that personal information and important documents remain secure. Most people place this type of information on their computers. Those who do should make sure these devices have anti-virus, firewall and anti-spyware installed for security. Hard, physical documents with sensitive info should be shredded before they are disposed of. Individuals should also protect their mobile devices, check credit report on an annual basis and avoid scammers.
If you believe that your identity is stolen: place a hold on major accounts, change passwords and file a complaint with the necessary officials. Even those utilizing the best identity theft protection might find themselves in this type of situation. There are many free resources that provide various tips and techniques related to safeguarding sensitive information from criminals.
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