subject: Some Tips on Avoiding Identity Theft [print this page] Some Tips on Avoiding Identity Theft Some Tips on Avoiding Identity Theft
To avoid identity theft while giving personal data or login information to websites make sure you are using a secure connection. Otherwise you may be at risk for identity theft. As a bankruptcy lawyer, I encounter people struggling with identity theft all the time.Most people believe they're avoiding identity theft simply by being careful about who handles their documents, shredding receipts and old credit cards, never giving their Social Security number, etc. But it's not just someone rooting through your trash or stealing your wallet that you need to worry about anymore. Essentially, you need to worry about someone digging through your internet. The best thing you can do is be securely connected to teh internet if you're going to give any personal information to websites. I could explain in detail what security vs. encryption is, but frankly it's boring and complicated. What you need to know is what that security does: a secure connection ensures that people who are on the same network as you (say you were logged in at work, or using the WiFi at Starbucks) can't steal your information. And if you're not connected to a shared network (say you're using WiFi at home) be sure to double and triple check to make sure you require a password to connect. Don't believe me? One person managed to steal FORTY identities just by using the WiFi at a Starbucks, in a half hour. How did he do it? People were signing into unsecure websites (for some this includes Facebook) using a shared network, and he was able to hack into their computers and steal their information. Think about how much personal information you have online posted on something like your Facebook account. Or your web-based e-mail. If someone managed to get your logins, the results could be catastrophic. That's why it's so important to use a secure connection if you're putting information out there. If you're using a public network, make sure that "https://" appears before the URL instead of " http://.The "s" stands for "security.".Having your identity stolen can be a terrible experience. It is incredibly important to make sure your information is secure these days. It might seem annoying to take these extra steps towards security, but the alternative is far worse. Would you rather take a minute of your time to ensure that your private information is secure, or deal with everything an identity theft entails?