Online identity theft can happen to anyone January 4, 2020 – Posted in: Cyber Security, News – Tags: Cyber Security
Online identity theft can happen to anyone
In the present day, a large part of our lives is based in the online world – in the structure of data! Whether it’s within social media, e-commerce websites or even educational pages – you’ll agree with us that important information related to ourselves dwells online in many different places.
This presents a perfect chance for the cybercriminals who want to rob your individuality to replicate you in order to launder money, make purchases on your behalf and undertake other malevolent plans.
According to an estimation, identity theft triggers $50-billion worth of financial damage each and every year. For some people, identity theft can cause measly awkwardness that can be fixed with certain simple actions. For other parties, however, it can cause serious damage to their financial situation and overall reputation.
How does someone steal an online identity?
In the past, identity theft took place when a criminal pocketed your personal post, bank receipts, wallets with credit cards, etc. In the digitally connected era, this can take place via any of the following methods:
- Harmful phishing websites
- Malware unauthentically installed on your computers or smartphones
- Transacting via an ATM which has been rigged to skim information
- Sharing passwords with dishonest people
- Phoney social profiles
- Remote access
- Hazardous Pharming websites
Though it’s important to stay vigilant, you can safeguard your identity by being cautious and following certain steps.
Can you protect yourself against online identity theft?
Rather than challenging issues head-on, it’s wise to take some preventative measures. Here is how you can protect yourself from such a terrible situation.
- Antivirus and anti-malware software
Keep your computers & smartphones equipped with the most recent antivirus and anti-malware software. Good software helps you in combating most malware, spyware, and keyloggers.
- Be cautious when using ATMs
While using an ATM, make sure you hide your PIN to avoid being detected by a hidden camera.
- Passwords
Always keep distinctive passwords for independent websites and social media platforms. Make sure your passwords are strong enough to be cryptic. To help you remember all the passwords, use the online services of Google to store them.
- Watch out for spam or junk mail
Keep an eye for emails that pop-up in your inbox, appearing to be from a trustworthy website or source that ask you to download something. Double-check with the source cited to ensure their honesty.
- Be wary of Social Media
The best way to avoid someone from robbing your information is by limiting their access to it. Restrict your disbursement of information.
Follow these easy steps to keep a check on your data and information. Keep an eye on new information and become aware of new ways to defend yourself digitally.
Want to get the best cybersecurity for your business?
At Ontraq, we take a security-first approach to everything that we do with technology.
If you have any concerns, questions or simply want to explore how to better secure your business, please do get in touch with the team for a FREE demonstration and initial consultation to explore how exposed your business might actually be.
To book a consultation or to arrange a further discussion, please get in touch.