Tips for Protecting Yourself Online

• Don't open files, click on links or download programs sent by strangers
• If you did not initiate any kind of log-in request with a website and you receive an email directing you to a website to log-in to get help, delete the email and do not click on any links. This is called phishing - a scam where phishers mimic emails and websites to capture a victim's log-in credentials. Read more about phishing.
• Beware of impersonators contacting you. If there is any doubt, contact the person or company through their own website or phone number
• Don't over-share on social networking sites
• Keep up-to-date on anti-virus, anti-spyware, and firewall software for your computer
• Consider encryption software or services
• Get creative with passwords and keep them private

Tips for Protecting Your Credit Cards

• Shield your credit cards from view
• Total your receipts before signing
• Do not leave empty spaces on your receipts where additional amounts can be added
• Never sign blank receipts
• Keep copies of your receipts and compare them with your statements each month

Tips for Protecting Your Bank Accounts

• Never sign blank checks
• Do not leave empty spaces on your checks where additional amounts can be added
• Balance your checkbook monthly
• Request a credit report from each of the credit reporting agencies annually
• Routinely change passwords for all credit card and bank accounts
• Shred or tear up documents with any personal information before discarding
• Keep a list of your credit cards and bank accounts
• Keep copies of your credit card statements, bank statements, and canceled checks for at least three years

Common Ways a Thief Can Get Your Information

• Stealing your wallet or purse
• Finding personal information in your home
• Obtaining information from your work
• Randomly using your Social Security Number
• Listening to your telephone conversations
• Shoulder surfing
• Dumpster diving
• Stealing your mail
• Fraudulently obtaining your credit report
• Calling or sending mail / emails with bogus promises
• Cyber-attacks on banks or businesses you patronize

How a Thief Can Use Your Information

• Obtain new credit cards in your name
• Forge checks and debit cards and drain your account
• Open new bank accounts in your name
• Obtain loans or mortgages in your name
• Receive utilities in your name
• File a bankruptcy case in your name
• Commit crimes in your name