Spring Cleaning your Identity: Guarding against Identity Theft

Spring is a time for renewal, for clearing away the cobwebs of winter and embracing fresh beginnings. Just like hidden dust bunnies under your furniture, identity thieves can lurk in unexpected places, waiting to compromise your valuable information. So this spring, consider adding identity protection to your spring cleaning checklist. 

Here are some tips to keep your identity safe:

Plan for a secure disposal

As you declutter old documents, receipts, financial statements, and electronics, don’t simply toss them in the trash. Shred any documents containing account numbers, and personal identifying information. This will prevent them from falling into the wrong hands and being used for fraudulent purposes. Consider clearing information on old electronics as well as removing the hard drive before donating or recycling them. 

Beware of Phishing

Spring brings beautiful blooms, but be wary of phishers attempting to disguise themselves as legitimate sources. Do not click on suspicious links or attachments from unsolicited emails, especially in emails claiming to be from banks or government agencies. Verify the sender’s information before engaging.

Spring Cleaning Social Media

Take a look at your online presence. Springtime often means increased social media activity, sharing photos of gatherings and social events. Review your social media settings and adjust privacy controls to limit who can see your personal information. Be mindful of what you share publicly. Remember, once something is online, it can be difficult to completely erase. 

Be wary of public Wi-Fi

Public Wi-Fi networks can be breeding grounds for identity thieves. Avoid accessing sensitive information like banking accounts or credit cards while connected to public Wi-Fi. Consider using a virtual private network (VPN). 

Changing the Seasons is time to Change your Passwords

Just like we change out our wardrobes, consider changing your passwords regularly, especially for emails and bank accounts. Use strong, unique passwords for each account, and avoid using easy to guess information like pet names and birthdays. Consider using two-factor authentication on your devices. 

Monitor Your Accounts

Regularly check your bank statements, credit card statements, and credit reports for any unauthorized activity. Report such activity immediately. Consider enrolling in a credit monitoring service with a reputable company. This can be an extra layer of protection in the fight against identity theft.