10 ways identity theft happens
Here are some of the ways your personal information might be compromised:
1. Misplaced wallet
Someone else could obtain access to all of the information in your wallet if it is lost or stolen.
- Don’t carry your Social Security card or more credit cards than you need, and don’t keep a list of passwords and access codes in your wallet.
- Make photocopies of your credit cards, front and back, and keep them in a safe place so you can quickly contact the issuer if a card or your wallet is missing. Some issuers allow you to temporarily “turn off” a lost card; others require you to cancel and request a replacement card.
2. Mailbox robbery
Someone takes your mail or forwards it to a different address, and you suddenly cease receiving most letters.
- Sign up for USPS Informed Delivery. You’ll receive an email with photographs of the products that should be sent to you, so you’ll know if anything is missing.
- Choose a secure mailbox and retrieve mail as soon as possible.
3. Using public Wi-Fi
When you utilize free public Wi-Fi, hackers may be able to see what you’re doing.
- Don’t use public Wi-Fi for shopping, banking, or other significant transactions.
- If you opt to utilize public Wi-Fi, use a virtual private network service to build a secure connection.
4. Data breaches
Hackers break into systems containing sensitive information, as seen in the 2017 Equifax credit bureau attack. A data breach has affected almost everyone.
- Assume your data is already out there and take appropriate protection.
- Check your credit scores frequently — sudden changes can be an indicator — and carefully study financial and insurance statements. Keep an eye on your credit reports, especially for new accounts or inquiries stemming from credit applications.
5. SIM card swap
This is when someone takes over your phone number. You may stop receiving calls and texts, or you may receive notification that your phone has been activated.
- Set up a PIN or password for your cellular account.
- Consider employing an authentication app for accounts that include sensitive financial information.
