Identity theft happens when someone else uses your information without you knowing it for their own advantages or to steal money from you.
In previous years, there were a lot of cases of identity theft. Thanks to the frequent data breaches that make your credit card information available to the world. With that said, it would be best to take precautions to prevent this from happening. You do not want an identity thief to ruin your financial accounts and use your identity.
Here are effective tips that you could follow to avoid identity theft:
1. Monitor Your Medical and Financial Statements
If your statement of account arrives, make sure to read every word and number. It is not just a piece of paper or nonsense email that you can neglect. It is best that you check the transactions that were made, no matter how small they may be. You should take note of your due dates and report to your issuer if they miss to send you your credit card bill. Chances are, your mails were rerouted or stolen from your mailbox.
With regards to health care fraud, you should thoroughly read the explanation of benefits to ensure that you are aware of all the services provided. You should shred paperwork that you would no longer use and securely keep those healthcare records.
Be cautious about clicking links on emails. It would be better if you go directly to your insurance provider’s website.
Moreover, beware of people who call you to ask for personal information. They might claim that they need it to fill a prescription or to complete billing.
2. Check Your Credit Reports Frequently
It is recommended that you request credit reports once every four months. In doing this, you would be able to check suspicious activities on your account as well as incorrect information.
3. Protect Your Data on Your Mobile Devices
Using your mobile devices can be a risk of identity theft. Here are what you should do when using your mobile devices:
- Be extra cautious in downloading free apps on the internet. Some of those apps could be malware.
- Avoid using public Wi-Fi because it can let others see your data.
- If you are not using your Bluetooth, turn it off and keep it that way.
- Set up two-factor authentication, use hard-to-guess passwords, and keep your software updated. For two-factor authentication, it is recommended that you use an authenticator app instead of using the text sent to your mobile device. You should practice all of these for your social media accounts, financial accounts, and other sensitive accounts.
- Set up a personal identification number on all sensitive accounts on your phone. Moreover, your phone should have a password, as well.
4. Be Cautious When Shopping
When you go out to the mall or when you go shopping, make sure that you know where your wallet is and do not put it in your back pocket. Ensure the safety of your debit and credit card all the time. Do not tell anyone your PIN and do not keep a copy of your PIN together with your card.
All those above tips can help you prevent identity theft, but you can still be a victim no matter how careful you are. If you want to have additional protection, you can check out our top 3 anti-hacking software.