TIPS TO PREVENT IDENTITY FRAUD
It is not a news that Identity theft is one of the increasingly popular crime, with some people fallen victim almost every minute. It’s necessary to take steps to protect yourself or else, thieves can steal vital information about you, like your name, address, telephone number, bank account, or credit card numbers and most importantly you national identity number.
Identity theft is when someone uses your personal data such as, your name, date of birth or other personal information to impersonate you, typically using that information to steal from you.
Scammers put this sensitive information to work in many ways such as applying for additional credit cards or loans, getting unsolicited commission. Some identity thieves could even go so far as to use your name to borrow loan on loan apps. Reducing your risk of identity theft depends solely on your vigilance in guarding your privacy.
WAYS TO SAFEGUARD YOURSELF FROM IDENTITY FRAUD
Be Defensive of Your Personal Information
Ensure that your personal information is safely secured, especially at work and in public. If you have people working in your home, make sure your account details, credit cards, and other personal information are locked away. Don’t give personal information over the phone, for instance if someone contacts you and says they’re calling from somewhere like your bank, credit card company, ask for a number to call them back. Then, make sure it’s really an official number.
Protect Your Online Information
Avoid posting personal information, like your date of birth, on social media or other online platform. Never provide personal or financial information on any website unless you have verified that the site is secure.
Avoid Carrying Vital Document In Public
Carry only the essential document that you need. Keep your scarcely used identification and cards in a secure place.
Use Strong Passwords and Change Them Often
When setting passwords for your various online accounts, use ones that cannot be easily guessed or discovered. Avoid using simple passwords like your date of birth, your mother’s maiden name or other personal data. Be careful when you’re asked to give personal information by telephone, through the mail, or over the Internet. Even if you started the contact, confirm that the other party is legitimate. Always ask about the confidentiality of the information.
Protect Your Electronic Devices
Don’t download files from strange site. Use firewall and secure you browser from attack. Also avoid using automatic log-in processes and update your devices regularly.
NB: This article is not a legal advice, and under no circumstance should you take it as such. All information provided are for general purpose only. For information, please contact chamanlawfirm@gmail.com
WRITTEN BY CHAMAN LAW FIRM TEAM
EMAIL: chamanlawfirm@gmail.com
TEL: 08065553671, 08024230080