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Protecting one’s identity is very important. While complete elimination of identity theft risk may not be likely, one can be careful and minimize the chances of identity theft. Here are six ways you can protect personal information and lower risk of becoming a victim of identity theft:  

1. Keep Personal Documents Safe 

Not all personal data is on the computer. Lock all tangible financial documents in a safe place and limit what you carry with you when you go out. Avoid giving out more information than needed. If you don’t need a particular document, don’t just throw it away. Use a cross-cut shredder to shred documents or make it impossible to read the contents of the document. Destroy labels on prescription bottles and don’t share medical or financial information with anyone. 

2. Keep Data Secure Online 

The highest risk of identity theft is online. Make sure to use strong passwords for financial and personal data. Use at least eight characters for your password and make sure to avoid easy or obvious passwords. Try incorporating numbers, special characters and capital letters into your password. Try to avoid using the same password for all social media or websites, and make sure to change them from time to time. 
 

3. Check Records Regularly 

Check financial and medical records at least once every three months. If you track all your data, it will prove beneficial for you in the event of theft. Keeping a personal record can help catch unusual activity. Using SWACU Online or Mobile Banking allows you to check your account activity. If there is any unusual activity on your accounts, you will be able to report it in a timely manner. 

 
4. Don’t Overshare 

Make sure not to post too much information about yourself online. An identity thief can steal your information and answer personal questions on your behalf to gain access to your financial and personal data. Avoid giving out personal information via phone or through email. 

 
5. Protect Your Phone 

There are many great applications available that help keep track of your finances or fill out taxes. This means a lot of sensitive information could be accessed if your mobile phone is stolen. To avoid this, always keep your phone with you and password protect it. You can also use voice activation or fingerprint biometrics to protect your phone. 

 
6. Be Cautious of Phishing Scams 

Many identity thieves use phishing scams to gather personal information. They can either send an email impersonating your financial institution or call pretending to be a mobile phone company operator. They may ask you to click on a link or to tell them your social security number, credit card number, or date of birth. Trusted companies will never ask you to reveal your information like this. If you are suspicious of anyone who contacts you claiming to work for the bank or your mobile service or any other service, make sure to report them to the proper authorities.