Identity Protection Tips

Breaches Affect You…. You may have heard recently of many data breaches that have occurred across all industries and even in government. Always monitor your credit card and bank statements for unauthorized activity.

Get rid of Windows XP and Windows 7…If you have a computer with Windows XP or Windows 7, it should be upgraded as soon as possible. Windows XP and Windows 7 are no longer supported by Microsoft therefore any computer still running these operating systems is at greater risk.

Create a passcode for your mobile phone… Create a passcode so the event it is stolen it cannot be accessed

Use up to date anti-virus software on your computer….Always ensure that you have up to date antivirus software running on your computer.

Use Unique passwords for each website…Don’t use the same password for all of your website accounts. Use Complex, hard to guess password. Change your passwords regularly

Shred your personal information.. Do not throw away receipts, tax information, credit card offers, medical/ insurance information, etc. without first shredding them.

Review your credit report from the three major credit bureaus at least once a year. Freeze your credit report at each agency.

Request Identity protection PIN from the IRS to prevent someone else from filing returns in your name.

Do not give out personal information over the phone, through email or over the internet unless you have initiated the contact or are sure of who you are talking to.

Protect your Personal Identification Numbers (PIN)…Do not write your PIN down. Do not choose a PIN that is easy to guess.