How To Protect Your Personal Information

May 8th, 2008 • Related • Filed Under • by tisha

In this age of technology and increased concerns of security, it is more important than ever that you protect your personal safe information, especially your social security number, from falling into the hands of someone else. It’s important to note that online security concerns are not the only thing you need to be worried about when protecting your personal identity and information. In fact, most of the tips listed here have nothing to do with the internet.

Here are some tips that can help keep you safer and keep you conscious of security concerns.

Internet Security

Hire a professional when setting up your computer if you do not understand the necessities of computer security programs. If you have your computer set up properly the first time and you employ the appropriate software, you will be assured your computer will be safe when you sign on to the world wide web.

Shred All of Your Paper Records

Before crumpling a receipt or account statement, think twice. Keep a stack of your important papers and shred them before disposing in the trash. Once your garbage goes curbside, anyone can access your private information.

Don’t Give Away Too Much

Often marketing practices will involve some pretty specific questions in order to get information, such as when you fill out warranty cards or when you sign up for in-store offers. You do not need to tell anyone your date of birth, the ages of your children, or the amount of your yearly income. All of the extra information is used for marketing purposes and is not required to get a warranty or apply for a store rewards card.

Find a Job Safely

Many people take to the internet to find their next job. Posting resumes online or with agencies have become common practice. Before posting anything, check into the privacy policies of the website. Some, you may be surprised to learn, will tell you they are allowed to sell your information to others for any reason. Never, ever put your social security number or other private information on your resume. Employers do not need that information unless they plan to hire you.

Keep PINS Hidden

PIN numbers as well as social security numbers should always be kept in a safe place, which does not include your wallet or other obvious place inside your home. In the event of a break-in or a lost wallet, you want to have access to your information and make sure no one else does. It’s also important to make sure the PIN numbers you create aren’t obvious – like your phone number, address, or birth date, even if they may be easier to remember.

Mail Box Safety

Unless your mailbox is locked, do not leave mail in the box overnight, especially important papers that contain your social security numbers or account numbers. Leaving mail in the mailbox, especially one with a red flag, signals to thieves your information is fair game. Plus, you may never know your information has been taken until it is too late.