If you, Aore make a list and check it twice, trying to find something nice for your loved ones this holiday season, keep in mind that the frenzy annual shopping both in stores and online, creates many opportunities for identity thieves to gather sensitive personal data. And since you, Aore probably purchase more than usual, it could take longer for you to notice suspicious items on your bank statements and credit card.
Last December we posted a series of tips to help you protect yourself against identity theft during the holiday season. This advice is worth repeating, especially as identity theft has only become more widespread over the past year.
- Protect your credit cards and personal documents. When shopping, carry only the credit card or cards you need. Take extra cards and your social security card, birth certificate and passport in your wallet or purse and leave them at home.
- Keep your receipts and use them to verify the accuracy of your statement before you pay your credit card bill.
- Before shopping online, make sure your computer is fully protected with Internet security software. Make sure the software is updated regularly. And check the lock icon on the website tray, browser AOS, indicating that the site is safe and secure for financial transactions. To learn more about Internet security software, see our reviews and comparison chart.
- give money or gift cards, no checks. If you write a check, make sure it does not have your Social Security number on it.
- Build your passwords. Passwords with at least eight characters, including a combination of letters, numbers and ideally symbols, are the most difficult for hackers to crack.
- A cross-cut shredder is an excellent defense against identity theft, and would make a great gift too!
Of course, if you Aore concerned about identity theft, consider a theft protection service identity. Given the current economic climate, it makes sense to look for more practical gifts than usual for your friends and family. And what could be more convenient than the identity theft protection or perhaps an online backup service? Online DVD rental services are more popular than ever, now that many of us spend more time at home, which makes another great gift option.
NextAdvisor.com wish you a happy holiday season and safe!