Internet Identity Theft
By Rick Hazeltine
Staff Editorial Writer
The Internet is becoming so ingrained in our daily lives, it's almost impossible to remember what life was like without it. But just as the Internet allows you access to a myriad of products and services, it also gives others access to you. And not all of those people have your best interests in mind, especially those who practice Internet identity theft.
As technology becomes more and more sophisticated, so do the techniques for Internet identity theft. To protect you and your computer from Internet identity theft, use the following tips:
- Keep security software updated. This can be done easily by using security software that updates automatically. Make sure your computer has anti-virus and anti-spyware software and a firewall. You can purchase these security safeguards from a retailer or possibly your Internet Service Provider (ISP). Don't get trapped into thinking the security software that came with your computer is adequate. Security threats grow in sophistication every day, so it's imperative to have the latest version or you may very well become a victim of Internet identity theft. Make sure you purchase security safeguards from reputable sources and avoid emails that claim they have scanned your computer and discovered viruses or spyware.
- Keep Web browsers and operating systems current. Manufacturers find security flaws all the time and issue security patches to fix them. These patches are included in any updates your Web browser or operating system may notify you about. Always update them. Also, computers come with built-in security and privacy settings. You can change these by going to "Tools" or "Options." If you need more information, check the "Help" library. Hackers can easily surpass the default settings. Also, if you are not using your computer, disconnect it from the Internet. This makes it more difficult for hackers to violate your computer and make you a victim of Internet identity theft.
- Create strong passwords and vigorously protect them. You should treat these as you do your Social Security number. Just as your SSN is the door to your existence, your passwords are the door to your Internet existence. Don't share your password with anyone over the Internet, in email or even over the phone. Although, it's more difficult to manage, try to have different passwords for each of your accounts. Make sure you keep them in a safe place and NOT on your computer, in case it's lost or stolen. Just like you shouldn't keep your SSN in your wallet. Passwords should be at least eight characters that include letters and numbers or symbols if allowed. Don't use common words because hackers have programs that can try every word in the dictionary. Try to change your passwords at least every 90 days.
- Research sites that you want to do business with. Look for a seller's phone number on their site. If it's not there or doesn't work, move on. Research the company on the Web. There are almost always good and bad reviews for legitimate operations. Not only could you be a victim of theft by not receiving your purchases, but you could be a victim of identity theft as well. The thief could use your payment information to make their own purchases or even open more accounts in your name.
- Most importantly, don't respond to email that asks for your password, account or personal information. Internet identity theft most commonly occurs when people give this type of information when responding to official-looking emails. These emails may appear to come from your service provider, a credit card company, bank or other financial institution. Identity thieves are very good at creating emails that look as if they are official. Remember, no legitimate company will ask you for passwords, financial or personal information over the Internet. This crime is called "phishing" and if you answer the email, you are likely going to end up as a victim of Internet identity theft.
