Identity theft has always been a serious problem, but has become an exceptional concern in the twenty-first century. New technologies, tools and strategies have made it easier than ever for criminals to steal personal information, and an increasing amount of people are becoming victims.
Luckily, there are a number of steps you can take to mitigate the risks of identity theft for both yourself and loved ones. Keep the following tips in mind to help keep your information safe.
Monitor Credit Scores
Credit scores are a telltale sign of identity theft. If you or a loved one notices a sudden, unexplained drop in credit scores, it could be an indication that someone has stolen personal information and is using it to rack up debt. By monitoring credit scores regularly, you can catch identity theft early and take steps to mitigate the damage.
Check Financial Statements
Another way to monitor for identity theft is to regularly check financial statements. If you see any suspicious or unauthorized activity, it’s important to report it immediately. This can be done by contacting the financial institution directly.
Protect Personal Information
One of the best ways to protect against identity theft is to simply limit the amount of personal information you share. Be careful about giving out Social Security numbers, birthdates, addresses and other sensitive data. Only share this information when absolutely necessary and be sure to use a secure, trusted source.
Get Identity Theft Insurance
In the event that identity theft ever does occur, it’s important to have a plan in place. One way to do this is to get identity theft insurance. This type of insurance can help cover the costs of restoring your identity, such as legal fees and lost wages.
While it’s important for everyone to take precautions against identity theft, it’s especially important for those who have loved ones who are vulnerable. By following the tips outlined in this article, you can help to keep your loved ones safe from this growing problem.
Interested in learning more about identity theft insurance? Contact Quality 1st Insurance today.