Identity theft refers to a crime that is punishable by law in most parts of the world. This is essentially the stealing of the identity of someone else. Usually this criminal act is done in order to access credit, resources and other benefits in the name of someone else. Finding the best identity theft protection may be a priority for some, as the victims of this can suffer with many consequences if they are held accountable for the actions of the criminal.
This type of behavior relates to the using of the social security number, name, identification number or credit card account information from a person without their consent. Often times this is done in order to commit fraud and other related crimes. Most victims do not become aware of this illegal activity until after it has been done and ruined their identity or financial standing.
In recent years, studies have shown an increase in this kind of criminal behavior. Most thieves retrieve access to such personal information is through phone or email scams, stolen wallets or credit cards, documents and receipts found in the trash, and unsecure computers or wireless networks. Once they have received accessed to the information, they use it in order to open new accounts or cards, file tax returns and even purchase goods.
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.
Furthermore, make sure that sensitive personal information or financial documents are secure. A lot of people store this information on their personal computers and if they do, should make sure these devices are protected with a firewall, anti-spyware and anti-virus. Physical, hard documents that include sensitive information are to be shredded up before disposal. Other things that can be done: frequently checking credit report, not falling for scams, protecting mobile devices.
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 behavior relates to the using of the social security number, name, identification number or credit card account information from a person without their consent. Often times this is done in order to commit fraud and other related crimes. Most victims do not become aware of this illegal activity until after it has been done and ruined their identity or financial standing.
In recent years, studies have shown an increase in this kind of criminal behavior. Most thieves retrieve access to such personal information is through phone or email scams, stolen wallets or credit cards, documents and receipts found in the trash, and unsecure computers or wireless networks. Once they have received accessed to the information, they use it in order to open new accounts or cards, file tax returns and even purchase goods.
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.
Furthermore, make sure that sensitive personal information or financial documents are secure. A lot of people store this information on their personal computers and if they do, should make sure these devices are protected with a firewall, anti-spyware and anti-virus. Physical, hard documents that include sensitive information are to be shredded up before disposal. Other things that can be done: frequently checking credit report, not falling for scams, protecting mobile devices.
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.
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