How can I prevent my identity from being used for fraud?

How to Prevent Identity Theft

Identity theft can be really scary. It happens when someone steals your personal information and pretends to be you. They can open credit cards or get loans in your name. It can ruin your credit and finances. The good news is there are things you can do to help prevent it.

Keep Your Personal Information Safe

First, be really careful who you share information with. Never give out your Social Security number, birth date, or bank account numbers unless you know who you’re dealing with. Also, shred any documents with sensitive info before throwing them out.

Only carry the minimum identification you need. Don’t keep your Social Security card in your wallet or purse unless you need it that day. Store documents with personal info in a safe place at home.

Be careful online too. Check a site is secure before entering any info. Use strong passwords. Don’t click on suspicious links or attachments that could download malware.

Monitor Your Accounts

Keep a close eye on all your financial accounts and statements. Check for any weird charges or activity. Report anything suspicious right away. Sign up for text or email alerts so you’re notified of transactions.

Also monitor your medical records and benefits statements. Make sure no one’s using your insurance fraudulently.

Check Your Credit Reports

Get a free copy of your credit report from each of the three credit bureaus every four months. Make sure there are no accounts or inquiries you don’t recognize. Fix any errors immediately.

Consider freezing your credit, which prevents new accounts from being opened. It’s free and doesn’t affect your existing credit.

Use Caution with Public Wi-Fi

Be careful when using public Wi-Fi. info can easily be intercepted. Avoid shopping or banking. Stick to checking emails or social media.

Also be cautious with your home Wi-Fi. Make sure you use a strong password. Turn on your firewall and encrypt your network.

Watch Out for Scams

Scammers try to trick you into sharing your info through phishing emails, fake websites, or phone calls. Delete any suspicious emails, even if they look legit. Hang up on questionable calls.

Never click on links or call numbers in unexpected texts or emails. Go directly to the company’s website or call the number on your account statement.

Secure Your Mobile Devices

Use a passcode or fingerprint lock on your phone and laptop. Avoid storing sensitive info if possible. Install security updates right away.

Wipe data before selling or donating your device. Log out of accounts too. Disable Bluetooth when not in use.

Watch Out for “Shoulder Surfing”

Be aware of who’s around you when entering passwords or PINs. Identity thieves can look over your shoulder (aka “shoulder surf”) to steal your info.

Review Your Tax Statements

Carefully review your annual tax statement from the IRS, including for any tax refunds or income reported. Contact the IRS if you see any suspicious activity.

Don’t Overshare on Social Media

Avoid posting too many personal details like your address, birthdate, or vacation plans. Scammers can use it to steal your identity. Double check your privacy settings too.

Protect Your Mail

Try to remove mail quickly from your mailbox. If traveling, ask the post office to hold your mail. Consider a locked mailbox or PO box for sensitive mail.

Be Careful with Public Records

Opt out of public record aggregators like Spokeo that compile your info online where scammers can access it. Google yourself occasionally too.

Keep Documents Secure When Traveling

Never put your passport, credit cards, or other sensitive info in your checked luggage when traveling. Keep them with you in your carry-on.

Review Medical Bills and EOBs

Carefully review medical bills and explanations of benefits from your health insurance. Check for any services you didn’t receive. This can help uncover medical identity theft.

Set Up Account Alerts

Set up alerts on your financial accounts to notify you of any suspicious activity. Get alerts for large transactions, password changes, address changes, and more.

Limit Use of Debit Cards

Debit cards don’t have the same fraud protections as credit cards. Consider using credit cards instead that limit your liability if your number is stolen.

Know How to Get Help

If you do become an identity theft victim, act quickly! Alert your bank and creditors. File an identity theft report with the FTC. Monitor your credit and accounts closely until it’s resolved.

Being proactive is key to preventing identity theft. Just use caution in sharing your personal information and stay vigilant in monitoring your accounts and credit reports.

Sources:

[1] Texas Attorney General

[2] CISA

[3] NerdWallet

[4] Nolo

[5] ConsumerAffairs