How to Hack-Proof Your Identity
Identity theft is a serious problem. Hackers are clever, using various viruses, malware, adware and fake websites to infiltrate your computer and personal information. Once these individuals take your information, they can open credit card accounts, buy cell phones and obtain other services in your name without paying. The end result is catastrophic, ruining your credit and forcing you to go through a long, complicated recovery process. While there is no way to ensure full protection, there are combined measures you can take to reduce the chances of identity theft.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Never disclose your personal information, either verbally or in writing, unless you know for a fact that you are dealing with a legitimate business. Examples include phone companies, credit card companies, employers and banks. Even then, be sure to ask why the business needs your information and how it will be used.
-
2
Sign up for paperless billing. Banks, phone and credit card companies allow you to view your statements and pay your bills online. As a result, you can easily stop having paper statements sent by mail. This ensures that only you will see the information.
-
-
3
Change your passwords regularly. If you use online billing, change your password every few weeks.
-
4
Use elaborate passwords. Passcodes like your child's name, favorite food or maiden name are predictable. If someone you know tries to steal your identity, they will have little trouble figuring out your passwords. Instead, use strings of random numbers and letters.
-
5
Use protective software. There are many programs available that are completely free or at least offer a short trial period. AVG Anti-virus is a free virus program that provides basic protection, such as computer scanning for malicious programs. You can pay for added features later. Paid programs, like Spybot Search and Destroy, Super Anti-Spyware or Stopzilla are useful for detecting adware, spyware and malware. These are programs that infiltrate your computer and steal your information, much like viruses. In some cases, they can record every key that you press and send that information to a hacker.
-
6
Sign up for fraud protection. Credit card companies offer such services as part of their cardholder agreements. Ask them about the specific details. Although this doesn't prevent hackers from taking your information, it alerts the company to any suspicious activity. In turn, you won't be held responsible for unauthorized purchases.
-
7
Subscribe to identity theft protection. There are many identity theft protection services available for a small monthly fee. These services are useful because they protect everything, not just credit cards.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Computers are not the only medium for identity theft. Keep personal information, such as your Social Security Number, at home.
If you believe that your identity or information has been stolen, contact all your creditors immediately and suspend your accounts.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images
