In the wake of recent security breaches at a major U.S. retailer, identity theft has become a real issue and fear that many Americans face. It is a good time to remind ourselves what we can do to help prevent ourselves from becoming a victim of identity theft.
The IRS has provided some basic tips to help prevent identity theft:
- Don’t carry your Social Security card or any documents that include your Social Security Number.
- Don’t give a business your SSN just because they ask for it. Only give it when required.
- Protect your financial information.
- Check your credit report every 12 months.
- Protect your personal computers by using anti-spam virus software, updating security patches and changing passwords for internet accounts.
- Don’t give personal information over the phone, through mail, or on the internet unless you have initiated the contact and you are sure you know who you are dealing with.
You can read the full article here. Find additional identity protection tips from the IRS here.
This is worthwhile advice. I use https://annualcreditreport.com to check my credit report 3 times a year; once each with Equifax, Experian and TransUnion. I’m surprised how many people still send SSNs and credit card info by email. Email isn’t secure; think of it like a postcard that can be read by anyone who can touch it. If you need to transmit sensitive data, use a secure channel.