Call 4 Action
High tech identity theft
MILWAUKEE - Could new technology or social networking sites put you at risk for identity theft?
It could, if you have not taking measures to protect your information on electronic devices or social networking sites.
How are thieves using new technology and social networking sites to steal our identity?
Most of us have been doing a good job of protecting our information by shredding old documents, and not releasing personal information to people we do not know.
However, criminals can steal personal information that we may have stored on smart phones, gaming devices, tablets, and other electronic devices.
If your device is stolen or hacked into, you could be at great risk of having your identity stolen.
Also, criminals can use information such as birthdays, maiden names, hometown, etc., listed on our profiles to gain access to our existing accounts or to establish new accounts.
How do we protect this information from being accessed by thieves?
• Use passwords and change them frequently for electronic devices and social networking sites.
• Limit the amount of personal information that you store on electronic devices and be careful about who you share personal details with on social networking sites.
• Use caution when downloading apps, games, or other information from unfamiliar sites.
Some of these could contain malware that could be used to steal your information.
How do you know if your identity has been stolen and where can you turn for help?
Check your credit report regularly, and pay attention to suspicious activity on bank or credit card statements, or alerts about changes of a password or profile.
If you believe that your identity has been stolen, file a police report, and request a fraud alert to be placed on your credit report.
You can also contact our Call 4 Action office to request a free copy of our ID theft brochure.
This brochure has a lot of good information about how to restore your good name and stay protected.
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