“Protect Yourself: Top Tips to Avoid Identity Theft”

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Protect Yourself from Identity Theft: 11 Essential Tips

Every year, over a million Americans fall victim to identity theft. This crime occurs when someone steals your personal or financial information without your consent, potentially using it to make purchases or open accounts in your name. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to help avoid identity theft. Here are 11 ways to better protect yourself.

1. Password-Protect Your Devices

According to 2023 data from the Pew Research Center, 16% of smartphone owners in the U.S. do not use any security feature to unlock their phones. If you’re part of this group, reconsider your security measures. Failing to protect your devices puts your personal and financial data at risk.

2. Use a Password Manager

A 2022 poll commissioned by Google found that 65% of U.S. adults reuse passwords for different online accounts. Using the same password for multiple accounts increases your risk. Consider using a password manager like LastPass or 1Password to securely store unique passwords for each account.

3. Don’t Carry Your Social Security Card

Your Social Security number can be a gateway to identity theft if it falls into the wrong hands. Keep your Social Security card in a safe place at home rather than in your wallet to avoid potential theft.

4. Protect Your Personal Documents

Paper documents can be a goldmine for identity thieves. Shred documents containing personal or financial data, don’t let mail pile up, and sign up for electronic statements to reduce the risk of theft.

5. Watch Out for Phishing Attempts

Phishing attempts often come in the form of emails or text messages that appear legitimate. Avoid clicking on links or downloading attachments from unknown sources. If you suspect a message is legitimate, contact the company directly using information from your account statement.

6. Never Give Out Personal Information Over the Phone

Fraudsters may call pretending to be from a reputable organization and ask for personal data. No reputable organization will request personal information over the phone. Verify the caller’s identity by contacting the organization directly using their official contact information.

7. Regularly Check Your Credit Reports

Regularly checking your credit reports can help you spot suspicious activity. You can get a free credit report from each of the three major credit bureaus by visiting AnnualCreditReport.com.

8. Limit Your Exposure

Carry only the credit cards you need when you’re out. The fewer cards you carry, the fewer opportunities a thief has to steal from you.

9. Be Careful With Public Wi-Fi

Public Wi-Fi networks can be secure, but always verify encryption before trusting them. Look for a lock symbol or https:// in the address bar. Use a VPN and keep your operating system and antivirus software up to date.

10. Limit What You Share on Social Media

Sharing too much on social media can provide fraudsters with valuable information. Avoid sharing details like your address, security question answers, and images of sensitive documents.

11. Use a Privacy Screen

When using a computer in public, consider a privacy screen to shield your information from prying eyes. Privacy screens are also available for mobile phones to deter “shoulder surfers.”

Recognize Signs of Identity Theft

Signs of identity theft include receiving bills for items you didn’t purchase, calls from debt collectors about unauthorized accounts, and unexpected changes in your credit report. If you notice any of these signs, take action immediately.

What to Do if You’re a Victim of Identity Theft

If you suspect you’re a victim of identity theft, place a fraud alert on your credit report, file a report with local law enforcement, monitor your credit reports, and contact companies responsible for any compromised accounts.

The Bottom Line

Identity theft can cause significant financial problems, but you can protect yourself by taking the right precautions. Regularly review your credit reports and consider signing up for identity theft protection services.

For any mortgage service needs, call O1ne Mortgage at 213-732-3074. We’re here to help you with all your mortgage needs.

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