We totally get that in this day in age, it’s not unheard of to use your personal data just about every day. And if your data is just out there, internet hackers can absolutely get to your information. If you’re worried about identity theft (and we all should be!) then you’ll want to keep reading for a few helpful tips when it comes to preventing it from happening to you.
(image via: investopedia)
You’ve Got Mail
This is a super simple way to prevent identity theft: simply check your mail. Not all criminals are super high-tech, some choose to steal your identity by way of snail mail, so make sure you are checking your mailbox and taking your mail in every day.
Shred It
If you have a lot of papers that have any personal information on them, make sure you are making arrangements to either shred these papers yourself or take them to your local recycling center to have them shred your stash. In fact, a lot of recycling centers will advertise special days when people can drop off all of their ‘to be shredded’ bags and boxes of papers.
A Password Variety
We know that having the same password for everything can save you a lot of headaches, but what happens if someone discovers what your password is? Well, we know of a way to avoid this: create a different password for each app! And while we’re at it, avoid super generic answers to those security questions. You can thank us later!
(image via: mental floss)
Two Man Factor
You know how when you’re new to an app and something they ask is “would you like to enable two-factor authentication” and you inevitably say no because that seems a little dramatic? Well, stop doing that. Two-factor authentication is essentially adding an extra layer of protection by way of a PIN or other device’s phone number. We recommend having two-factor authentication when it comes to email, social media accounts, bank accounts, and credit cards.
Wipe It
If once you’re done with electronics you like to donate them either to a thrift store or a friend that fixes them, just make sure you wipe all of the stored data on there so just in case those electronics make it to a new home, nobody will be tempted to take advantage of that Amazon Prime.
Protect That Celly
Cell phones today mean having the entire world at your fingertips, so make sure that you always lock your cell phone, that your cell phone is password-protected and last but not least, make sure you’re using apps for things such as your banking rather than using your web browser.