Identity theft is a well known phenomenon. It is impossible to avoid putting ourselves at risk though, as our identities are an integral part of what separates us from others. Without your unique name, social security number, address and additional bits of information that are exclusive to you, it is impossible to open a bank account, submit to contractual agreements or simply apply for a job. How then is it possible to continue the important processes of daily life but still engage in identity theft prevention?
There are certain practices that are obvious. Never give information over the phone or to a person without due cause or identification. Just because people say they are phoning from the bank or from a certain company, it unfortunately does not mean that they are telling the truth. Similarly, e-mails from banking institutions will never ask you to submit telling information. This is known as “phishing” and is one of the most common methods of online fraud around. Your banking website should have several pages of information on this particular phenomenon. As stated before, it is not really possible to completely protect your identity as you are not the only one with this information. Identity theft prevention should therefore be more clearly defined as identity theft protection. By following certain practices and making a habit of conservative data sharing, you can minimise the risk by making it more difficult for criminals to access your information.
Make sure that your business, personal and contractual dealings remain completely legal. When we begin blurring the lines between what is legally acceptable and what might be considered unethical or immoral, we also open ourselves to a world of ways to be victimised. When your personal or professional dealings are not on the level, you make yourself vulnerable. If you do ever discover that your identity has been used for some or other reason, it becomes difficult to report it. Identity theft does not end at financially fraudulent behaviour. A good identity is valuable to illegal immigrants and those engaging in acts of terrorism and espionage as well. There are many resources that will point you in the right direction of minimising the possibility of identity theft. Common sense also plays a role though. Never throw important information just like that out in the garbage. This includes credit card and utility bills and statements. When submitting information in a public setting, and you feel uncomfortable about those who may overhear you, be sure to write down the information rather than make it available for potential eavesdroppers. Never give more information than is necessary and never be afraid to ask for proper accreditation from companies or credentials from individuals. Trust your instincts and have a healthy respect for the value of your personal data. This includes your names, the names of your family, social security number, your residential or work address, telephone numbers, account numbers, bank or credit card numbers and financial balance information.
It is a great pity that we cannot trust strangers, but in a world of burgeoning crime, we should not completely mistrust everybody we meet. Merely politely ask them for the credentials you need in the interests of protecting yourself and your family.
