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 theft involves a person uses the name, credit card number, social security number, identifying number or some other personal information of a person without their permission. Typically this is done in order to commit crimes, such as fraud. Many times, victims do not become aware of this activity until it is too late and the individual has already done things to ruin their identity and financial standing.
More recently, studies have shown increase in criminal behavior of this kind. Many thieves gain access to such sensitive information through stolen wallets, receipts or documents taken out of the trash, unsecure wireless networks or computer, and email or phone scams. Once they have this info, they are able to use it in order to file tax returns, purchase goods and open up new cards or accounts.
There are numerous ways individuals can safeguard their personal information. Some tips and techniques are available at a cost. However, there are numerous free resources available to those looking to protect their identities.
Nowadays, people use their computers and the Internet to store personal information and activities. Those who do this are encouraged to set passwords that are strong and change them from time to time. It is best to avoid common or easily guessed passwords, including maiden names, birth dates, pet names, and work or school names. A safe password is one that includes a few capital letters, and a minimum of one numeric and character. Be sure to change the password occasionally.
People are encouraged to be aware of the information they share online, especially through social media. These personal details shared online may be used by thieves in order to authenticate identities. Avoid posting your address, SSN, birth place, birth date, phone numbers and other information online where many others can access it.
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 have reason to believe your personal information has been stolen, put a hold on credit and bank accounts, change passwords and file a complaint with officials. Even those with the best identity theft protection may find that their identity has been compromised. There are numerous free resources that offer information related to keeping potential thieves away.
This type of theft involves a person uses the name, credit card number, social security number, identifying number or some other personal information of a person without their permission. Typically this is done in order to commit crimes, such as fraud. Many times, victims do not become aware of this activity until it is too late and the individual has already done things to ruin their identity and financial standing.
More recently, studies have shown increase in criminal behavior of this kind. Many thieves gain access to such sensitive information through stolen wallets, receipts or documents taken out of the trash, unsecure wireless networks or computer, and email or phone scams. Once they have this info, they are able to use it in order to file tax returns, purchase goods and open up new cards or accounts.
There are numerous ways individuals can safeguard their personal information. Some tips and techniques are available at a cost. However, there are numerous free resources available to those looking to protect their identities.
Nowadays, people use their computers and the Internet to store personal information and activities. Those who do this are encouraged to set passwords that are strong and change them from time to time. It is best to avoid common or easily guessed passwords, including maiden names, birth dates, pet names, and work or school names. A safe password is one that includes a few capital letters, and a minimum of one numeric and character. Be sure to change the password occasionally.
People are encouraged to be aware of the information they share online, especially through social media. These personal details shared online may be used by thieves in order to authenticate identities. Avoid posting your address, SSN, birth place, birth date, phone numbers and other information online where many others can access it.
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 have reason to believe your personal information has been stolen, put a hold on credit and bank accounts, change passwords and file a complaint with officials. Even those with the best identity theft protection may find that their identity has been compromised. There are numerous free resources that offer information related to keeping potential thieves away.
About the Author:
Read more about Utilizing The Best Identity Theft Protection visiting our website.
No comments:
Post a Comment