Safeguards Against Internet Identity Theft

Here are the things you can do to lower your risk:

• Install a firewall on your home computer to keep hackers from obtaining personal identifying and financial data from your hard drive. This is especially important if you connect to the Internet by DSL or cable modem.


• Install and update virus protection software to prevent a worm or virus from causing your computer to send out files or other stored information.


• Password-protect files that contain sensitive personal data, such as financial account information. Create passwords that combine 6-8 numbers and letters, upper and lower case. In addition, encrypt sensitive files.


• When shopping online, do business with companies that provide transaction security protection and that have strong privacy and security policies. For more online shopping tips, read PRC Fact Sheet 23,www.privacyrights.org/fs/fs23-shopping.htm.


• Before disposing of your computer, remove data by using a strong "wipe" utility program. Do not rely on the "delete" function to remove files containing sensitive information.


• Never respond to "phishing" email messages. These appear to be from your bank, eBay, or PayPal. They instruct you to visit their web site, which looks just like the real thing. There, you are told to confirm your account information, provide your SSN, date of birth and other personal information. Legitimate financial companies never email their customers with such requests. These messages are the work of fraudsters attempting to obtain personal information in order to commit identity theft. Visit www.antiphishing.org.


• Be aware that file-sharing and file-swapping programs expose your computer to illegitimate access by hackers and fraudsters. If you use such programs, make sure you comply with the law and know what you are doing. Install and update strong firewall and virus protection.


• Many file-sharing programs are downloaded by youngsters without the knowledge of their parents. There are software programs available that identify file sharing software and locate shared files on home computers. For more information on safe surfing for families, visit www.getnetwise.org

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