What is identity theft? Wikipedia explains it as “is the deliberate use of someone else’s identity, usually as a method to gain a financial advantage or obtain credit and other benefits in the other person’s name, and perhaps to the other person’s disadvantage or loss.” You can read more about what they list here.
Before providing anyone with sensitive personal information, whether via phone, email, online, or a text message, think about what you are being asked for.
Here are five tips to avoid trouble with identity theft:
1. Your bank or any other legitimate business will not send you an email asking you to reply or click a link and provide personal information.
2. Legitimate businesses also do not ask for personal information without a good reason. If in doubt, don’t respond, or contact the business directly (using contact information you know to be correct).
3. Be cautious with emails. Scammers can copy a company’s logo and make their emails look like they’re coming from a business you trust.
4. Don’t trust the information that comes up on your caller ID. Scammers can make this information look legitimate, even if it’s not.
5. Hang up on “robo” calls. They are a common tool used by scammers.
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