How Can I Protect My Identity?

Here are some steps you can take to protect your identity...

Secure your personal documents Documents like your financial records, social security card, medicare card, all offer various pieces of information that identity thieves can use to commit fraud in your name. To protect yourself, check your mail in a timely manner in case you're sent physical mail with personal details. You can also set up a hold on your mail while you are out of town.
Protect your Social Security Number In our world today, your social security number will be needed by various organizations including banks, schools, your employer, and the IRS. However, you should protect your social security number as much as possible because it is one of the most essential credentials toward establishing your identity

- Organizations that need your number will not email, text, or call you asking for it. This is a clear red flag.
- If an organization asks, ask if they'll accept alternate identification. The less organizations that hold your Social Security number, the less risky it is.
PASSWORDS One of the most overlooked parts of identity theft today is the use of strong passwords.
- Do not choose passwords that are easy to remember like "123456" or "password"
- Instead, create passwords that use different characters and are void of easy patterns
- Additionally, using multi-factor authentication can help add another level of safety on your accounts.
  - This is like when you sign into something and they send you a text confirming it's you

Next Chapter: How Can I Protect My Identity While In Public?

All Chapters:

[Chapter 1]: Identification of Fraud