With more and more business occurring on the Internet, protection from identity theft has never been more important. However, despite the increased attacks on personal computers and websites, few people are taking the necessary precautions to secure their information. To help make you a safer user and to keep your information away from those looking to steal your identity, below are a few suggestions as to what you can do.
Preventative Measures – Most people only ever run a virus scan on their computer when they think something is wrong. This is a mistake many people make. By constantly running virus scans, you ensure that nothing can get a foothold on your computer. In addition, by updating your anti-virus software constantly, you ensure that newer viruses can’t get through, providing you with identity theft prevention.
In addition to keeping anti-virus software up to date, make sure that every program you use is as up to date as possible. People looking to steal your identity will make use of outdated patches to hack into your system. Don’t give them the opportunity. In particular be sure to update your web browser and operating system every time they require it.
Limiting Exposure – Beside preventative measures, limiting your exposure is an excellent way to protect yourself from identity theft. One way that people steal your identity is through e-mail messages. These messages often include links that will install invasive software onto your computer, making it vulnerable to future attack. Do not open messages from people you do not know, regardless of what they say.
Also, be wary about clicking on a website you are unfamiliar with. Some websites will install programs onto your computer when you click a link. In addition, they can corrupt your web browser, logging everything you type and then stealing that information. This can include user names, passwords, and bank information.
Don’t Volunteer Your Information – Every time a person asks for your private information, question whether or not they need it. Do they really need your user name or password? What are they trying to do? Is the same place that identified the problem asking for your information? More likely than not, the people trying to help may be the people trying to hurt.
Identity theft is common, and the best thing you can do is to be cautious. Treat every good offer or threat with a grain of salt, keep your software up to date, and stay safe.
Please contact us if you have any questions about this article!
Written for us by our associate Gary Sorrell, Sorrell Associates, LLC.
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