Have you ever had your identity stolen? It can be a terrifying experience, leaving you feeling violated and exposed. Unfortunately, it’s becoming more and more common as technology advances. According to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), in 2019 alone, over 11 million cases of identity theft were reported in the U.S., costing consumers and businesses billions of dollars.
The good news is that you can protect yourself and your identity by understanding the standard techniques used by identity thieves and scammers. Here are four tips that will help keep your information safe:
Tip #1 – Monitor your credit report
Identity thieves will often use stolen information to open new accounts in your name, so checking your credit report regularly for any suspicious activity is important. You can request a free copy of your credit report from the three major bureaus (Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion) once per year. It’s also wise to sign up for a credit monitoring service that will alert you if there are any changes or unusual activity on your account. In addition, if you ever see any unfamiliar accounts or charges, contact the lender or company immediately to report it.
Tip #2 – Use strong passwords
Strong passwords are your first line of defense against hackers and scammers. Make sure to use unique, complex passwords for your online accounts, and avoid using the same password for multiple sites. You should also enable two-factor authentication (also known as two-step verification) whenever possible. This will add an extra layer of security to your accounts by requiring you to enter a one-time code sent to your email or phone before you can log in.
Tip #3 – Be cautious when shopping online
It’s all too easy for identity thieves to steal your credit card information when you shop online. Make sure that the website you’re using is secure and trustworthy before entering any payment information. If a site looks suspicious, it’s best to avoid making a purchase from it. Also, if you can opt for payment services like PayPal or Apple Pay which offer an extra layer of security when shopping online.
Tip #4 – Shred Everything
Finally, make sure to shred all documents that contain personal information before throwing them away. This includes bank statements, credit card bills, and any other documents that have your name or address on it. Shredding these documents will ensure that thieves cannot access your information if they find the papers in the trash. It’s wise to choose a professional shredding service to ensure that your documents are destroyed completely since some home shredders don’t always do a thorough job.
By following these tips, you can help protect your sensitive data from scammers and thieves. Remember, the best defense against identity theft is awareness – so stay vigilant and keep an eye out for any suspicious activity on your accounts.
Assured Document Destruction: Helping You Fight Identity Theft
At Assured Document Destruction, we understand the importance of protecting your identity and confidential data. We offer secure document destruction services for businesses to ensure that all sensitive information is properly destroyed and disposed of. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you protect your business from potential security threats!
