 Keep Your Identity Secure Online
Six Steps to Safeguard Your Computer
If you use the Internet and store personal information such as your Social
Security number, bank account numbers or financial records on your computer,
here are steps to keep it safe from spying eyes:
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Update virus protection software regularly, including patches for your
operating system.
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Use a firewall program to stop hackers from taking over your computer,
especially if you use a broadband Internet connection.
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Don't open files, download programs or click on links sent to you by strangers.
Confirm strange emails from friends and family before opening them or clicking
on included links.
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Use a secure browser that encrypts or scrambles information you send during
online transactions. Update your browser when a new version is released to make
sure you have the latest security protection.
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Use a complex combination of letters and numbers as a password to access
financial information stored on your laptop.
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Before disposing of your computer, use a 'wipe' utility program or shredding
software to overwrite the hard drive or remove it and physically destroy it.
Even erased or deleted files can be retrieved.
Gone Phishing
Phishing is a high-tech scam that uses email or pop-up messages that appear to
be from businesses and organizations you deal with, like banks, online
merchants and Internet Service Providers. They request that you verify or
update your account information in order to steal sensitive data. They may even
direct you to websites that look legitimate, but are not. One recent scam
involved fake mortgage lenders with super low mortgage rates and an online
application that victims willingly filled out.
Avoid phishing scams by verifying the emails before responding to them. Call
the business or organization to confirm that the email is legitimate and to
report suspicious activity. Check the company's website to get information on
the known scams that have been identified. Forward a copy of the message, if
possible, to help the company keep track of the illegal correspondence being
delivered in their name.
More Ways to Keep Your Electronic Information Safe
In addition to the safeguards above:
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Don't email personal or financial information. Email is not secure.
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Review credit card and bank account statements promptly for unauthorized
charges.
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Shred any CDs or DVDs that contain personal information before disposing of
them (be sure your shredder can handle the material first!).
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