Protecting Your Accounts and Identity 

Having your identity stolen is a fear that nearly everyone fosters. It can be frightening to consider your personal information being used against you. Fortunately, there are many ways to prevent this from happening. None may be foolproof, especially with the rampant technological innovation occurring, but many provide substantial protection. If the possibility of stolen personal information worries you, here are six tips for preventing identity theft.

1. Use Identity Verification Software

In the modern age, technology has both decreased and heightened security. While hackers are able to access more information remotely, software can block these attempts more effectively. One type of programming that does this is identity verification software. This technology can protect you from identity theft with near infallibility. Identity proofing may ensure that no one will be able to sign-in to your accounts. It utilizes methods like scanning your physical ID's and asking for selfies.

2. Stay Private

While younger generations are generally less trustful of others, social media has encouraged online information sharing. This can be fun, but it's essential to think about what you're posting before you put anything online. When creating a social media profile, you may want to avoid putting your city and especially your home address. Any details about your life that you've used as security questions should be kept secret. This goes the opposite way as well. If you're prone to posting about your pets, don't use a pet's name as a security answer. In general, make sure none of your posts can be used against you.

3. Protect Your SSN

Social security numbers are practically the essence of your identity in the eyes of the government. Therefore, having yours stolen should be avoided at all costs. Keep this number close to your chest. Unless absolutely necessary, never carry a written form of it with you. Don't put it on your phone in case the device is stolen. Try to memorize it completely so you can avoid needing a copy. You should also keep the original version in a safe place within your home.

4. Watch Your Account

While banks often call patrons if suspicious activity is noticed, such security isn't infallible. You may find your account information stolen by someone smart enough to stay under the radar. In order to avoid this, it's essential that you check your account activity on a regular basis. Look at each purchase and withdrawal made. Time is of the essence in this regard, so immediately report any unknown activity you see.

5. Tear Up Receipts

It's easy to throw mail and other identity-revealing items away without a thought. However, doing so without tearing the item up could result in a stolen identity. Before throwing out anything with your personal information, rip it up thoroughly. The pieces could technically be put back together, but chances are that most will be completely separated.

6. Utilize Strong Passwords

Choosing a strong password is vital in securing your identity. It's best if you use a completely random string of numbers and letters, but this can be difficult to remember. If you use a more memorable password, be sure that it's detailed enough to be difficult to guess. Try to choose words or numbers that aren't easily connected to you. For instance, a parent's or sibling's name will be easy to figure out by dedicated hackers. Instead, choose something that's more inwardly personal or removed from your daily life. Then, add extra characters to throw off hackers even further. If you're lost, you can use a strong password generator online.

Identity theft has been seemingly growing in menace for a while, mainly due to its remote capabilities. Hackers from all over the world can find online information. Luckily, this doesn't need to ruin your life. If you take proper precautions, you should be alright. In the event that your identity is stolen, immediate action can prevent extreme damage. No matter what, stay prepared and ready for this eventuality.