1. Think, and think again…
Whether it’s online or in person, you are constantly being asked for your personal data. Don’t just blindly give it up, it’s yours! Think about why the information is needed, who will use it and how they will use it. Check privacy policies, they will outline how organizations use any personal information given to them. Also remember, the Internet never forgets. Once information is out there, it’s very hard to get it back. Be cautious of what you are sharing!
2. Safeguard your SSN
Your Social Security Number is one-of-a-kind. Sharing it can open the door to your personal information and put you at great risk of fraud or identity theft!
What can identity thieves do with your Social Security number?
- Open bank accounts, credit cards, lines of credit & make purchases in your name!
- File tax returns to obtain your refund
- Open new other types of accounts in your name, such as internet, utilities, and more.
- Destroy your credit score & put you in big-time debt!
3. Protect your Devices & Passwords
Take steps to ensure the security of all of your devices. Set up secure passwords/passcodes, and use multi factor authentication when possible. This goes for all devices; computers, mobile phones, tablets, etc. Only download new apps and software from reputable sources, and keep all apps/software and anti-virus protection up-to-date. Data is vulnerable when passing through public spaces with open wireless networks. Don’t leave mobile devices unattended. Lastly, when creating passwords, make sure they are complex and hard to guess, and do not leave them written on sticky notes or in documents that are not protected.
4. Get to know privacy settings
Mobile devices, browsers, sites, apps, and other web-enabled items, often have adjustable privacy settings. The default privacy settings are usually not very strong, so your first line of defense is to always check those settings. On mobile devices, this may include the ability to control everything from location tracking to screen locks. For browsers, users can often control things like cookies and pop-ups, while apps and websites, such as social media sites, generally allow users to control what personal information others can see about them. Review and adjust your privacy settings regularly as they can change from time to time with updates.
5. Discard with discretion
Make sure data stored on devices you no longer use is properly removed before selling or disposing. Shred any documents that contain personal information.
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