October is National Cyber Security Awareness Month

October is National Cyber Security Awareness Month

Many people think about a cyber security event as a problem for businesses, or “my credit card company will handle it for me.”  And while it’s a big issue for businesses, it’s also a big issue for individuals too ~ You need to protect your Identity. 

What is ID fraud?  Law enforcement defines it as all crimes against individuals where personal & financial data is illegally obtained by fraud or deception, usually for financial gain.

Cyber criminals are interested in your Social Security number and credit card/bank information, but that’s not all!  An amazing amount of information can be discovered with just your name and address.  If you add your date of birth, savvy criminals can find your SS #.  But wait, there’s more!  Your driver license # can offer a lot of information and your health insurance can also be at risk!  Once ID thieves steal your identity, they can apply for credit cards or loans in your name, withdraw funds from your accounts, obtain medical care (which can alter your medical records), steal your tax refund, and sell your information on the dark web!

What should you to protect yourself & your family?  Build obstacles to your personal data to frustrate and discourage thieves.  If you’re too much trouble, they will pick on someone else!

First, PASSWORDS (I know they’re a hassle!) – Password protect all your devices & accounts.  Change the passwords from time to time and any time you suspect an account may be compromised.  DON’T use the same password on everything.  Make them something hard to discover (not your birthday or address or child’s name – too easy to discover) and include symbols & numbers (use numbers as letters in your password – for example 5 for S).

Avoid suspicious links in emails & texts – the link may look similar to your financial institution, but a small difference could easily be overlooked.   When you go online chose a website that starts with https: for an added security level, but be sure to check the exact wording

Never give out personal information - the IRS never calls on the phone (they always use the US mail) and your credit card company already has your credit card #.  Limit the number of credit cards you carry and don’t carry your SS card in your wallet.  

Shred private records and statements – never throw them out in your trash.  ID thieves can use receipts and mail to develop your personal data.  And don’t leave mail in your mailbox –have the post office hold your mail when you go on vacation.

Check your bank and credit card statements carefully.  Some thieves will charge to withdraw a small amount to see if you catch it, and if not, they come back for more!

Check your credit report regularly.  You can get a free credit report every 12 months by calling 877-322-8228 or online annualcreditreport.com  Set up fraud alert if you suspect an issue.

And finally, consider a fraud monitoring service & include ID fraud protection on your homeowner insurance.