Tools to Prevent Identity Theft
Computers:
- Require a password to gain access. Log off or lock
your computer when not in use.
- A personal firewall that is not
only installed but turned on at all times. Use firewalls on your local network to add another
layer of protection for all the devices that connect through the firewall (e.g.
PCs, smart phones, and tablets).
-
An up-to-date operating
system. The best way to ensure your operating system is
current is to turn on automatic updates.
-
Antivirus software. After
installing your antivirus software, be sure to run and
update it regularly. Schedule complete system scans of your computer
(at least weekly) in
addition to real-time scanning.
-
Anti-spyware software. After
installing your anti-spyware software, be sure to run
and update it regularly.
-
An updated and current
browser.
- Update your software frequently to ensure you have the
latest security patches. This includes your computer's operating system
and other installed software (e.g. Web Browsers, Adobe Flash Player, Adobe
Reader, Java, Microsoft Office, etc.).
- Automate software updates, when the software supports
it, to ensure it's not overlooked.
-
Strong passwords on all
critical Internet applications that are changed at least
every 90 days.
- If you suspect your computer is infected with malware,
discontinue using it for banking, shopping, or other activities involving
sensitive information. Use security software and/or professional help to find
and remove malware.
- Use a cable lock to physically secure laptops, when
the device is stored in an untrusted location.
Online:
- Never click on suspicious links in emails, tweets, posts, nor
online advertising. Links can take you to a different website than their
labels indicate. Typing an address in your browser instead of clicking a link in
an email is a safer alternative.
- Only give sensitive information to websites using
encryption so your information is protected as it travels across the
Internet. Verify the web address begins with "https://" (the "s" is for secure)
rather than just "http://". Some browsers also display a closed padlock.
- Do not trust sites with certificate warnings or errors. These messages could be caused by your connection being intercepted or the web
server misrepresenting its identity.
- Avoid using public computers or public wireless access
points for online banking and other activities involving sensitive
information when possible.
- Always "sign out" or "log off" of password protected
websites when finished to prevent unauthorized access. Simply closing the
browser window may not actually end your session.
- Be cautious of unsolicited phone calls, emails, or texts
directing you to a website or requesting information.
Passwords:
- Create a unique password for all the different systems you
use. If you don't then one breach leaves all your accounts vulnerable.
- Never share your password over the phone, in texts, by
email, or in person. If you are asked for your password it's probably a
scam.
- Use unpredictable passwords with a combination of
lowercase letters, capital letters, numbers, and special characters.
- The longer the password, the tougher it is to crack.
Use a password with at least 8 characters. Every additional character
exponentially strengthens a password.
- Avoid using obvious passwords such as:
- your name
- your
business name
- family
member names
- your
user name
- birthdates
- dictionary
words
- Choose a password you can remember without writing it
down. If you do choose to write it down, store it in a secure location.
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