Identity Theft; It’s not IF but when. 10 steps to reduce your risk.
The Setup
It’s been a while since my last post. I try to be very deliberate when I blog, I don’t want to just go on and on about things that are not important to you. This topic is one you want to consider and seriously think about.
Just like the early days of the automobile, technology is, has and continues to change our lives forever. When cars first hit the road few people had them so the need for insurance was not there. Then as more and more people hit the road, we began to have accidents involving both people and property. Insurance began to make good sense. I’m sure at the time people thought that it wasn’t necessary, but as we all know it’s not if but when. The automotive insurance statistics are very compelling. At some point in your life you will be involved in an accident that will require the use of your insurance.
What does this all have to do with identity theft? Just like the automobile, in the early days of the internet few used it so few had problems. Now that it seems like everyone is connected in so many ways more bad things begin to happen. It’s simple, the more integrated we become and the more we connect the more chances there are that your identify will be stolen. Life just works that way, evil has been with us since the beginning and will continue to the end.
My Advice
Just like driving there are several things you can to to reduce your risk of identity theft. Here are 10 things you can do to reduce your risk:
1. Use strong passwords that contain numbers, characters, and special characters like “&”
2. Change your passwords monthly
3. Make sure your wireless network is secured
4. Put a password on your cell phone or smartphone. If you loose it all your info is easy to take
5. Have once credit card designated for internet purchases
6. Have that card tied to a separate bank account.
7. Make sure your computer has virus protection as well as spyware protection and make sure to run it.
8. Read your bank statements. Check for non-authorized charges.
9. Make sure your Facebook account is secure.
10. Get a GMail account to be used only for online purchases.
The next step is talking to your insurance agent about identity theft insurance. In most cases you home owners or renters insurance company will offer identity theft insurance at a reasonable price. Stay away from companies like Life Lock. They are too small and have that “here today gone tomorrow feel.” Check this article and you will understand what I mean.
If you follow these simple steps you’ll significantly reduce your risk and if it does happen it will make recovery much less painful.
If you have anything to add to this please comment. If you are not clear on any of the suggest points, let me know. You can always contact me through my web site at www.pineapple-pc.com.
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