Identity theft is the fastest growing crime in the US, and a growing number of identity theft victims children. Minors are particularly vulnerable targets because their parents do not normally check their credit reports, which can allow crime to go undetected for years. And in some cases, lack of credit history, it is easier to obtain credit on behalf of a child.
What you may not realize is that students are just as likely as children, if not more. Many colleges and universities continue to use Social Security numbers of students for purposes of identification, which means that these sensitive numbers could be plastered on identity cards, grades, and other official documents. Students are often bombarded with pre-approved credit offers, and may also receive letters concerning financial aid. As students move frequently and may neglect to forward their mail, sensitive information is more likely to fall into the wrong hands. And since nearly 30% of college students ignore their control and credit card balances, they are much less likely to notice if they become victims of fraud.
We have compiled a list of tips to help students prevent identity theft.
1. Protect your sensitive personal information.
Your sensitive personal information can be used to withdraw money from your bank account to make fraudulent charges on your credit cards, or to accumulate debt in your name. Sensitive personal information includes your social security number, credit card and bank account numbers, all other personal financial data (such as documents on financial aid), the number of your driving license, medical information, and even date of birth, address and telephone number.
Your social security number is the key to your identity. In the hands of an identity thief, it can be used to open new accounts in your name. You should never wear your number or social security card with you in your wallet. If you have not already saved your social security number, do so. You might consider leaving your Social Security card at home your parents and make a photocopy of it that can be locked and identified only as needed. If your college uses Social Security numbers as student card, apply for a new student card with a random number that is not tied to your Social Security number. When filling out paperwork, you must provide your Social Security number when absolutely necessary. In many cases, you will be asked for your social security number as a matter of course rather than necessity, in this case, it is perfectly acceptable to decline.
Paperwork including sensitive personal information should be stored in a safe, discreet, like a locked cabinet. Do not let these types of documents in your backpack or purse, and keep track of your wallet. Your dorm and campus can feel safe and comfortable, but it is not uncommon for identity thieves to take advantage of this trust environment. Your roommate and new friends may seem perfectly fine, but there is no need to tempt them by leaving your sensitive personal information lying around for the taking.
2. Protect your laptop.
Your laptop almost certainly contains a mine of sensitive personal information. This access to your identity is more valuable than the computer itself. That is why it is essential to take some basic precautions to protect your laptop and the information it contains.
One of the best ways to prevent the theft of a laptop computer is to be aware that laptops are very tempting and relatively easy targets for thieves. Never leave your laptop unattended in a library, café or other public place. Do not leave your laptop in your dorm room with the door open. You may want to consider buying a lock that protects your laptop to a desk or table. There are also alarms that alert you if someone tries to move your laptop, or if you and your laptop are separated by a distance of more game, and follow-up services for laptop recovery and . At the very least, you should label your laptop with your name and contact information, write down the serial number, and put a sticker with bright colors or other identifying mark on your laptop so you can easily recognize .
Use passwords to protect the information stored on your computer. Ideally, you should not store passwords on your computer, or allow your browser to remember passwords. If you must, at least be sure to use a strong password to primary log-in to prevent unauthorized access to your laptop. Remember this password, and do not save it or write it down anywhere on or around your computer. Whenever you're done using your laptop, make sure to disconnect. For extra protection, you can encrypt sensitive data and disable instant message recording.
And of course, Internet security software is essential. Hackers use spyware, viruses and phishing to access your files, passwords, bank account and credit card numbers and PINs. The best way to counter cybercriminals is to install software that provides comprehensive protection against a variety of threats, and put this software to update automatically. Since hackers are taking advantage of vulnerabilities in your operating system, web browser, and other software you need to install quickly all fixes and recommended updates whenever they become available.
3. Be aware when using the Internet, social networking sites in particular.
Internet security software is a necessity, but there is no substitute for common sense. Understanding the risks associated with social media and be smart when browsing the web.
personal data sharing can make you an easy target for online attacks. An identity thief may use information about your courses, your network of friends and family, or your hobbies and interests to impersonate a friend or convince you that they have the authority to request personal data or financial. They also might be able to guess your passwords or answers to password security. Use privacy settings and common sense to avoid scammers. Most social networking sites allow you to control the amount of your profile is revealed to users inside and outside your network. Adjust these settings to meet your individual needs, but in general, you should limit the amount of personal information you post. For example, never publish your full name, social security number, date of birth or address. Limit your circle of contacts. Consider restricting access to your page to a select group of people and set your profile to "private" to prevent unwanted members to view your personal information.
Whether you are on a social networking site or any other Web site, you should always be cautious when clicking on links or downloading files. Avoid opening links or downloads from strangers. Shortened URL shortening services like TinyURL and Bit.ly can be used to mask the true destination of the link and get you to download malware. Phishing emails that appear to come from a financial institution or a social networking site can send you to a spoofed website designed to capture your username and password. If in doubt, type the web address into your browser, or use a link in your Favorites menu, rather than clicking a potentially misleading link in an email. Never enter your password or account number, unless you have verified the authenticity of the site. Above all, pay attention and follow your instincts. If a website looks suspicious, click.
Do not use a public computer to shop online or do their banking online. And when using a public computer for any reason, consider disconnect from all websites and the computer itself once finished.
4. Do not ignore mail.
mail can provide many opportunities for identity thieves. Bank and credit card statements and routine administrative formalities of your college or university contain all personal data required to open fraudulent accounts. Identity thieves can also use unsolicited pre-approved credit card offers to apply for credit cards in your name by post.
Always shred preapproved credit card offers before throwing them away. If you wish, you can prevent financial firms from sending these offers preapproved by completing an application form to OptOutPrescreen.com. To reduce other types of junk mail, visit the website of the mail preference service of the Direct Marketing Association and ask to have your name removed from marketing mailing lists.
Consider signing for bank statements and online credit card and stop paper statements. As with all documents containing sensitive information, store your statements in a safe place or, if you throw them, shred them thoroughly first.
You might want to think about getting a post office box for personal mail, or maintain your parent's address as your permanent address. This will reduce the risk of mail going to an out-of-date address. Otherwise, be sure to fill out a change of address at the post office when you move, make sure your mail is sent to the current address.
5. Take responsibility for your finances.
Whether you've been winning and budgeting your own money for years or you always rely on an allowance from your parents, it's time to take responsibility for your own finances. Review your bank account and credit card statements regularly and report any unauthorized charges immediately.
should also start thinking about your credit history. If you have not already, you should check your credit report for fraudulent or erroneous information. As some companies do not fall under a credit bureau, it is best to request your report from all three (Equifax, Experian and TransUnion) credit to make sure you have not been a victim without your knowledge. If an identity thief opens a new account in your name, this information must appear on at least one of your three reports. For more information on creating and protecting your credit, check credit 101, another NextAdvisor.com guide specifically created to educate young adults.
Avoid signing up for a credit card with vendors on campus. If you are interested to sign up for a credit card, it is safer to contact the credit card company directly.
6. Consider a proactive solution for identity theft.
There are several companies that offer complete protection against identity theft. These services work to prevent, detect, and if necessary, adjust the identity theft in your name. Depending on the service, the safeguards include fraud alerts to help prevent new credit lines to be opened in your name, reducing junk mail, public and private database scanning for misuse of your personal information and more. To learn more about identity theft and protection against the various companies that offer this service, take a look at our reviews and comparison chart.
7. Take action immediately if you think you have been a victim.
If your credit or debit card is lost or stolen, call the bank or credit card company immediately and cancel the card. You should also notify your bank immediately if you notice an unfamiliar activity on your bank statements or credit card.
If you think you may have become a victim of identity theft, contact the fraud departments of the three major credit bureaus and request that fraud alerts placed on your file.
Equifax: 800-525-6285
Experian: 888- 397-3742
TransUnion: 800-680-7289
Review your credit reports for business applications you have not contacted, accounts you did not open, and debts that you can not explain. Make sure your personal information is correct. If there is incorrect information, please contact the relevant credit bureau to have it removed. Close any accounts that have been tampered with or opened fraudulently. And file a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission and your local police.
If you subscribe to a protection service against identity theft or credit monitoring service, your service provider will handle these steps and provide advice and assistance additional.
8. Helping to curb identity theft by sharing these tips with other students.
College students may find it difficult to muster much concern about identity theft. You have a feeling of invincibility, campus feels like a safe and friendly environment, and you have things more interesting and immediate thinking. But the risk of identity theft is very real, and unfortunately, it will probably be an increasing risk for the coming years. Restoring your identity can be a costly and lengthy process. It is far better to take some reasonable precautions to suffer the consequences of becoming a victim of fraud. In addition to protecting you, you can help reduce the threat of identity theft by sharing this guide with friends and classmates.