How to protect yourself from identity theft!

Here is a link to my video on this lesson.

Introduction

Here is an introduction to how to protect yourself from identity theft. Identity theft is the fraudulent acquisition and use of a person's private identifying information, usually for financial gain. In this lesson I will teach you about warning and ways to protect yourself from identity theft.

Warnings

Unexpected and unauthorized withdrawals from your bank account You don’t get your bills or other mail. Unfamiliar accounts or charges on your credit report. A notice comes up that your private information was compromised by a data breach at a company where you work or have an account at. A health plan won’t cover you because your medical records show a condition you don’t have. The IRS notifies you that more than one tax return was filed in your name You receive income from an employer you don’t work for. Sellers refuse your checks. Debt collectors notify you about debts that aren’t yours. Medical providers bill you for services you didn’t use.

Ways to protect yourself

Properly dispose bank statements and credit card receipts by shredding them Strengthen your passwords by using a random combination of letters, numbers, and special characters Request one credit report every four months and make sure there is no suspicious or incorrect information Avoid sharing your social security number Do not include personal details on your social media profile and strengthen your privacy settings to be cautious of who you connect with online Secure your phone by using a password, turning off bluetooth whenever it is unnecessary, and be cautious about downloading free versions of popular apps Ignore emails, links, or unidentifiable phone calls that ask for personal information Constantly monitor your financial statements and report any suspicious activity in your bank and credit card accounts as soon as possible Keep your mail safe by using a locked mailbox or P.O. box


If you follow these steps you will be able to succesfully avoid identity theft.

Quiz