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Identity in the Digital World
Your personal information such as your name, address, and email forms your digital identity and can be tracked online.
While devices and technology make life easier, they also put your information at risk.
What is Identity Theft?
Identity theft occurs when someone uses your personal or financial information without your permission to commit illegal activities or access your accounts. This can lead to unauthorized transactions, new accounts being opened in your name, and even your identity being used in inappropriate activities.
This information can include the following:
- Name
- Date of birth
- Street address
- Email address
- Telephone number
- Passport or driver’s license number
- Credit card numbers
- Social Security number
- Bank account number
- PIN number
- Passwords
- Fingerprints
- Employment information
- Medical information
- Photographic images
While any age group is susceptible to identity theft, Seniors are often targeted by identity thieves because they typically have good credit scores and savings.
Common Tactics Used by Unauthorized Users (Cyber criminals)
- Information you give away: This includes filling out forms, talking in public, and responding to suspicious messages.
- Data breaches: Attackers can steal your information from hacked online stores, banks, or even government databases.
- Social media scams: Fake accounts can be used to befriend you and trick you into revealing personal details.
- Unsecured devices and networks: Weak passwords, unmonitored servers, and infected devices can all give unauthorized users access to your data.
- Malware: Malicious software like viruses, trojans, or ransomware can steal information directly from your computer or phone.
- Contactless payment skimming: In some cases, unauthorized users can steal data from your credit or debit cards using special devices.
What Can Unauthorized Users Do with Personal Information?
- Open a credit card in your name and rack up charges
- Obtain a loan
- File a tax return and intercept the refund check
- Open utility accounts
- Receive medical treatments using your health insurance
- Open a bank account
- Obtain a driver’s license or passport
- Use airline miles or other perks associated with a credit card
- Create bogus online accounts
- Present your information in the event of an arrest
Steps to Prevent Identity Theft
- Protect Important Documents: Store critical documents like passports, birth certificates, cheque books, Social Security cards, and financial information in a secure, locked location, such as a safe or locked drawer.
- Be Wary of Emails: Always be suspicious if people urgently require personal information or a money transfer.
- Click with Caution: When shopping online, check out a website before entering your credit card number or other personal information.
- Don’t Answer Calls from Unknown Numbers: Phone scams are one particularly common method used to commit senior identity theft.
- Shield Your Computer and Smartphone: Protect your personal information on your computers and smartphones. Use strong passwords and keep your devices updated with the latest security software.
- Take Caution When Sharing Information: Be careful with what information you share. It’s a sad fact that people are in danger of identity theft not only from strangers online but also from those around them.
- Monitor Bank and Credit Statements: Regularly checking financial records, such as monthly bank statements, credit reports, and credit card bills, can potentially help catch fraud early on.
- Shred Documents: Shred all unnecessary documentation that includes personal information, especially documentation with your date of birth, Social Security number, signature, medical information, or legal information.
Stay Protected and Informed
Your identity is your most valuable asset. Don’t let unauthorized users take it away from you. Stay vigilant and take proactive steps to safeguard your personal information.
Protect yourself and your loved ones by staying informed and prepared. Your safety and peace of mind are worth the effort.
Get Support
We are here to support you in navigating through each step of your digital journey,
If you suspect your identity has been stolen, contact our Support Team for immediate assistance