·
Use anti-virus, anti-spyware software and a
firewall. Be sure to update these programs regularly.
·
Use a password on your smartphone.
·
Be careful in using free public Wi-Fi. Be sure
not to connect to financial accounts or do online shopping at a public Wi-Fi.
·
Change the passwords on your accounts,
especially financial accounts, regularly. Some experts recommend changing
passwords every 90 days.
·
Monitor your online back and credit card
accounts frequently.
But there are vulnerabilities in the physical world for your
personal information. ID thieves often can be found in parking lots, dumpster
diving, and trolling our mailboxes.
·
Locking
Mailbox. Mail thieves are often after your bank and credit card
information. Credit card statements, utility bills, and health care information
can be used to take your identity. Use a locking mailbox to send and receive
your mail.
·
Shred
Documents. Those same bills, bank statements and credit card statements can
be used by ID thieves if you throw them in the garbage. Shred any documents
with a bank/financial account number, credit card number, or your Social
Security Number. Look for a micro-cut shredder. Documents that are run through
a micro-cut shredder are the most difficult to put back together.
·
Prevent a
Car Prowl. Don’t leave anything visible when you leave your car. Car
prowlers often find identity gold mines in parking lots and driveways when they
find purses, wallets, checkbooks, mail, cell phones and laptops/tablet
computers.
By taking these practical measures, you can help protect
yourself from becoming a victim of identity theft.
AARP Fraud Watch Network:
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