Written By: Jessica Snow
According to statistics,in 2011, identity fraud cost Americans $18 billion. 2013 will be the most challenging year for consumers. Medical ID theft, tax and financial fraud is on the rise. Using the right tools to protect your computer and identity could be the difference between convenience and financial ruin. Check out these five ways to protect your computer and your identity.
Use an Anti-Virus Program
Anti-virus software programs can make sure you don't accidentally download a file that will attack your operating system when launched. Viruses can include keyloggers, which will record every key that you press and remotely send it to an email address. New viruses pop up every day, so make sure to keep your anti-virus program updated to make sure you're getting the proper protection.
Back-Up Often
You should consider backing up your files to either an external hard drive or an online server. If you choose to back up your files to an external hard drive, make sure to create a new back-up every few weeks. If you choose to back up your files to an online server, you can set up the files to back up automatically at a certain time every day. If your computer crashes, you will have all of your files, photos and important documents in a secure and accessible place.
Be Careful When Shopping
Shopping online is fun and convenient. It's easy to get excited about your order of the latest T-shirt and forget to check for security. A secure website will have a lock graphic in the address bar, or the address will start with https://. This means that it's a secure server, and you should feel safe putting your credit card and personal information on this site. If a company's website is breached and secure information is accessed, companies are required, by law, to notify banks, and then the banks will notify their individual customers. If you find yourself on the receiving end of such a call, you should immediately cancel all of your cards and order new ones. While it may be a pain to track down all automatic payments and switch them over, not to mention being without money for a few days, it's worth it just so you don't have to constantly check your bank accounts for unauthorized charges.
Avoid Downloading Unknown Files
Before you download anything from your email or the Internet, check to make sure it is from a trusted source. Some programs can attach themselves to other downloads without your knowledge. To protect your personal information, make sure the computer virus software you are running has an anti-adware program included, such as AdAware.
Beware of Phishing
Receiving a notification email or text asking for personal information such as passwords, user names and social security numbers is worrisome. Remember to check with your individual institutions policy on information sharing. Most places will not ask you for your personal information via text or email. In the event that someone does steal your identity, a reputable company such as Lifelock will notify you. While there's no way to guarantee your safety online, there are ways to be proactive in protecting your information. By following these steps, you shouldn't have any issues shopping online.
About the Author: Jessica Snow is a young writer from sunny Florida who enjoys learning and writing about a myriad of topics. When shes not glued to her laptop you can find her running the trails with her Great Dane, Charlie.
