Information security is more than making sure your computer and phone are protected. Here are some tips that should make a difference in protecting your identity every day.
- Keep an eye on your postal mail. The old tricks of sending out scams through the postal system are making a comeback. Still, the U.S. Postal Service remains one of the most secure ways of sending information over long distances.
- Keep your personal information personal. Don’t share your social security number, credit or debit card number or even your date of birth with anyone that you don’t know and trust.
- Telephone scams are rampant. In one popular form of telephone fraud, the caller tells you there’s a problem with your computer, but he can fix it if you’ll follow his instructions. Don’t ever let anyone have remote access to your computer. Simply hang up.
- Use a shredder. Don’t let someone sifting through your trash find a treasure.
- Check your credit report at least every year to monitor any suspicious activity on your accounts.
Unless you’re planning a large credit purchase, consider putting a “security freeze” on your accounts with the major credit reporting agencies, Equifax, Experian and TransUnion. This will prevent cybercriminals from opening new accounts in your name.
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