Simple Steps to Avoid Becoming a Victim of Online Identity Theft
Life is much easier for many of us these days because of the internet. There's a wealth of information available to you, you can talk to people just about everywhere, and it makes it easy to transmit documents. However, all these benefits come with some potential problems. Thieves are also taking advantage of the easy availability of information by accessing your private data.
Most people store a lot of personal information on their home computer, laptop or PDA. Private information related to bank accounts and credit cards, as well as the associated passwords, are often stored on these devices. It isn't hard to imagine the harm that can be done to your credit standing if an identity thief steals these electronic goldmines. Hacking your computer long distance is another means of accessing your private details.
To keep yourself safe from this devastating crime, implement the following tips for identity theft protection immediately.
1) Set up your computer so that it requires a password in order to access any files. Do this for your PDA and laptop also.
2) Don't set your computer to remember passwords. It might be convenient to have your computer instantly enter passwords for all your accounts. However, identity thieves will find it just as convenient to access your financial accounts.
3) On a regular basis, change your passwords.
4) Use antivirus software, and make sure it's always running. This will protect your computer from hackers who would otherwise be able to sneak into the system and take what they need.
5) File sharing is another danger area. Your system is more open to being hacked if you have a wireless network that shares information between more than one computer.
6) Phishing is among the fastest growing methods of illegally collecting confidential information. Typically, you will receive an email that appears to be sent by a legitimate organization. When you follow the link, you'll be requested to enter your password. This information is then captured and used to take over your identity.
In response to the increased problem of identity theft, many institutions now offer identity theft insurance. If your personal information is stolen or compromised, this type of insurance will pay for your costs in rectifying the situation. This can include legal fees, phone bills, and postage. You can also be reimbursed for lost wages if you missed work while trying to resolve the situation. If you don't think you could deal with these kinds of costs on your own, your best bet is to take out some coverage.
Most people store a lot of personal information on their home computer, laptop or PDA. Private information related to bank accounts and credit cards, as well as the associated passwords, are often stored on these devices. It isn't hard to imagine the harm that can be done to your credit standing if an identity thief steals these electronic goldmines. Hacking your computer long distance is another means of accessing your private details.
To keep yourself safe from this devastating crime, implement the following tips for identity theft protection immediately.
1) Set up your computer so that it requires a password in order to access any files. Do this for your PDA and laptop also.
2) Don't set your computer to remember passwords. It might be convenient to have your computer instantly enter passwords for all your accounts. However, identity thieves will find it just as convenient to access your financial accounts.
3) On a regular basis, change your passwords.
4) Use antivirus software, and make sure it's always running. This will protect your computer from hackers who would otherwise be able to sneak into the system and take what they need.
5) File sharing is another danger area. Your system is more open to being hacked if you have a wireless network that shares information between more than one computer.
6) Phishing is among the fastest growing methods of illegally collecting confidential information. Typically, you will receive an email that appears to be sent by a legitimate organization. When you follow the link, you'll be requested to enter your password. This information is then captured and used to take over your identity.
In response to the increased problem of identity theft, many institutions now offer identity theft insurance. If your personal information is stolen or compromised, this type of insurance will pay for your costs in rectifying the situation. This can include legal fees, phone bills, and postage. You can also be reimbursed for lost wages if you missed work while trying to resolve the situation. If you don't think you could deal with these kinds of costs on your own, your best bet is to take out some coverage.
About the Author:
These days, nobody is safe from identity theft. It is one of the fastest growing crimes internationally. And it can happen to you. Visit Identity Theft Protection to learn how to protect yourself.
posted by Credit Counseling at
6:53 AM
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