HOW TO PROTECT YOUR IDENTITY
Credit Reporting:
Block Unauthorized New Accounts
Contact Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion and request a security freeze. This will be at no cost to you and will not affect your credit score. Freezing your credit stops unauthorized persons from opening new accounts in your name.
Review Credit Reports: you can obtain your credit report at no cost by going to AnnualCreditReport.com. Review your credit report thoroughly. If you find an error on your credit report, immediately file a dispute with the credit bureau reporting the mistake (Equifax, Experian, or TransUnion) and the entity that provided the incorrect data. The law requires that they must investigate and correct verified errors.
Online Accounts:
Use unique passwords and do not use the same password for multiple accounts. It is recommended that you use random, long passwords for every account. You can use a trusted password manager to keep track of your passwords.
Enable multi-factor authentication for all websites that offer it. This adds an extra layer of security beyond passwords.
Avoid using public Wi-Fi, especially while accessing any financial accounts or information.
Never click on an a link or download an attachment from an unknown Email or from a recipient from whom an Email or attachment is not expected.
Get an IRS IP PIN: Apply for an Identity Protection PIN on the IRS website can prevent fraudulent tax filings.
Do Not Save Payment Information on Websites
If the company with whom you have saved your payment information suffers a data breach, your personal information can be exposed. Instead, you should enter your payment information for each transaction separately.
Beware of Payment Information Stored on your Cell Phone
Be sure the contents of your cell phone are protected. Use a password, facial recognition, or other method to lock your cell phone in the event it is lost, stolen or accessed by an unauthorized individual.
Protect Your Documents:
Review all Financial Statements Regularly. Dispute any unauthorized transactions directly with the financial institution and/or lender. It is best to document the disputed transaction in writing.
Do Not Keep Your Social Security Card in your purse or wallet. Your Social Security card should be kept in a safe and secure location where it cannot be accessed by unauthorized persons.
Shred financial documents once they have been reviewed, particularly if available online. If documents containing your personal information and/or account numbers are not available online and must be kept, keep them in a safe and secure location that cannot be accessed by unauthorized persons.
Prevent mail theft by using a locked mailbox or post office box.
Reduce junk mail and unsolicited mail by visiting OptOutPrescreen.com
If you ever suspect your information has been compromised, you can report it and get a step-by-step recovery plan directly from the Federal Trade Commission at IdentityTheft.gov.
