With the advancement in technology and the increasing rate of poverty, cases on identity theft are rampant. In order for you to protect yourself from these fraudulent acts, you have to first understand how they happen.

The internet is the most common source of fraud. Commonly hackers target shopping sites. They use special programs that will allow them to save your credit card information. Then they use this information to shop like there’s no tomorrow. 

They also get your credentials through phishing attacks. They send emails and pretend that they are the bank or a government agency asking you to verify your information. Often times, they ask you to provide financial information to increase your security.

Data breaching is also one of the most popular internet fraud. Hackers gain access to your hard drive they will be able to access your personal information that are saved in it. This happens when you lose a laptop or you accidentally opened a virus that was sent through your email.

Other methods used by identity thefts include skimming wherein thieves attach devices in ATM machines to record your pin. They can also place something on the ATM that will make your card stuck and the thief would then approach you offering you help and then they would ask you to input your pin because it is required in the process. Thieves may do credit card duplication in restaurants. They clone your cards and use it to purchase things. Another method is that they may look into your trash to recover important documents containing your credentials that you already have thrown away.

To prevent you from becoming a victim here are some tips on how to protect yourself from identity thefts.

  • In making a payment over the internet, make sure that when you’re in the payment page the HTTP in the URL that’s found on your address bar changes to HTTPS.
  • Use a credit card instead of a debit card in making your payments. If you use a debit card, the thieves will drain your bank account whereas in credit cards you have a credit limit.
  • Always remember that banks and government agencies seldom communicate through email. If you are in doubt, contact the authority concerned.
  • For emails, examine for typographical and grammatical errors. If you have noticed these errors, then never provide any important information.
  • Only provide financial information when you have initiated the contact with the certain entity either by email or over the phone.
  • Familiarize the appearance of ATMs. If you notice something odd ask the assistance of the security guard on duty rather than a stranger.
  • Always keep track on you bank statements. Always make it a habit to monitor your expenses so that you will be able to immediately report any discrepancy.
  • Only carry few cards. Prevent yourself from bringing credit cards that you no longer use. Most of the thieves need only your account number to activate it. Make sure that you cancel all your unused credit cards.
  • Shred important documents before you throw them away.

Our money is the fruit of our labour. But thieves don’t realize this so instead of stressing yourself on how to put these conscienceless thieves behind bars might as well focus on preventing them from fooling you.