Defend Identity
According to Identitytheft.info, 15 million Americans have had their identity stolen. By posting personal information to social media websites such as your date of birth, your hometown, and your parents full names, you increase the risk of having your identity stolen. Therefore whenever you are required to give personal information make sure you are accessing a legitimate and secure website. Look for the lock symbol or https:// in the web address bar. Never click on a link unless you are 100% about it and even then double check first.
Risks
- 27 million Americans have had their identity stolen over the past five years.
- 9 million people had their identities stolen in the last year alone.
- Personal information was compromised in 10% of hacking incidents & 16% of incidents included Social Security numbers.
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Steps for Protection
- Own your online presence: When available, set the privacy and security settings on websites to your comfort level for information sharing. It’s ok to limit how and with whom you share information.
- Write it down and keep it safe: Everyone can forget a password. Keep a list that’s stored in a safe, secure place away from your computer.
- Secure your accounts: Ask for protection beyond passwords. Many account providers now offer additional ways for you verify who you are before you conduct business on that site.