How to Prevent ID Theft

It has been shown that crime increases during tough economic times. Protecting your identity can prevent years of recovering from a theft.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. 
   credit

   There are several different forms of identity theft, such as phishing, pharming or spoofing, smishing, and spyware. You don't have to have a computer to be a victim though. Thieves also use voice phising, bank card skimming, and can steel your property.

2. 
   Computer

   Always keep your private information just that, PRIVATE. Never respond to an email or phone call requesting private information such as pin number, account numbers, or social security numbers.

3. Check your bank statements and credit card statements for any charges that may be unauthorized use.

4. 
   car

   Keep your vehicle registration in a sealed envelope in your car, locked in the glove box. Always lock your vehicle when exiting.

5. If you conduct business over a computer, use your own. Public computers are less safe.

6. 
   computer

   Keep system and browser software up to date and set to the highest security level you can operate at. Install anti-virus, anti-spyware and firewall protection, and keep them up to date. If available, use hardware firewalls, often available through your broadband connection router.

Tips & Warnings

• Contact someone immediately if you feel you may be a victim of identity theft.

Resources

• Theft