Preventing identity theft is critical for protecting your personal and financial information. Here are some measures to avoid identity theft in Arizona and across the US:
Secure Personal Information
Keep important documents like Social Security cards, passports, and bank records in a safe place at home. Avoid carrying any unnecessary documents in your wallet or handbag.
Use Strong Passwords
Make your internet passwords unique and update them regularly. Do not use easy to guess information such as birth dates or common expressions.
Enable Two-Factor Authentication
Set up two-factor authentication (2FA) for online accounts. This provides a greater level of protection by requiring an email or text message code.
Be Cautious Online to Avoid Identity Theft
Use the internet with caution. Avoid opening the links or messages below.
- Phishing emails
- Social media phishing for business pages
- Fraudulent links and websites
- Requests for sensitive information from unknown sources
Monitor Financial Statements
Examine credit reports, bank statements, and credit card statements regularly. Look for any unusual activities or unauthorized transactions. Notify your bank of any discrepancies.
Shred Documents to Prevent Identity Theft
Shred personal or financial documents you no longer need. This prevents identity theft and dumpster diving. Bank statements, credit card offers, and utility bills are some of the examples.
Secure Wi-Fi Networks
Use a strong and unique password to secure your home Wi-Fi network. Do not use public Wi-Fi networks for online banking or shopping.
Protect Personal Devices
Do not ignore any device, app, or software updates. Use several layers of protection to lock your devices.
Limit Sharing of Personal Information
Do not give out or post any personal information online. This includes your full name, address, phone number, or birthdate.
Observe these guidelines and use caution on the internet. Protect yourself against identity theft and prevent any unauthorized access to your personal and financial information.
