6 Easy Methods to Prevent Identity Theft

Everyone who works on the Internet today has an identity online and in many ways, this identity is what defines them in the virtual and cyber world. Many times though, malicious parties and hackers actively carry out what is known as identity theft and this can be highly debilitating for all parties involved.

Many different kinds of identity theft exist and these range from false purchases through stolen debit/credit cards, takeover of control over existing online accounts or banking accounts, opening of new accounts over online platforms and other related malicious activities. At the end of the day, identity theft is something that can happen to anyone and everyone. There is no fixed group of people who are specifically targeted to identity theft. With that in mind, here are a few simple ways to prevent identity theft.

#1 – Ensure all your stored data is secured

People who keep confidential, sensitive and crucial data stored on their computers or on cloud services online, should ensure that this data is protected and safeguarded in the best manner possible. The best way to achieve this is with the help of a very strong password.

#2 – Stay aware about safe against email threats

Emails are the best way for attackers to get into confidential data and to trick people into clicking on phishing links and giving out confidential and private data. It is best to be aware about various email threats that do the rounds and to also learn how to recognize fake and phishing emails that are designed to steal information.

#3 – Sign up for regular alerts and updates

All financial institutions and organizations offer up regular security alerts and the like from time to time. It helps to be aware about these alerts and receive them in a timely manner so that you can also know the nature of dangers that are doing the rounds and how to avoid them.

#4 – Check your statements and reports frequently

You should make it a point to regularly check your bank statements and other documents so that you can spot any unusual or suspicious activity that may be happening. Many times, fraudulent activity or identity theft occurs over a long period of time before it is detected and by then a lot of damage has already been done. Regular monitoring is this highly important and crucial.

#5 – Beware while carrying out online shopping

Many people conduct a lot of purchases online today and that is an inescapable fact. It is necessary to follow adequate safety measures and precautions while shopping online so that personal details are not embezzled and also so that identity theft can be avoided successfully.

#6 – Ensure that your devices are protected

At the end of the day, virus protection and security software is the key for any machine or device. Updated and effective security is necessary to enjoy utmost protection and prevent identity theft of any kind.

Quick Heal aims to inculcate effective security measures in every device and has a range of products that can be utilized to achieve the same. Quick Heal Total Security achieves this with foolproof security features such as email security, privacy protection, browser sandbox and many more.

When it comes to serious issues like identity theft, it is necessary to take data breaches and privacy very seriously. Ignoring such issues can lead to cases where confidential data can fall into the wrong hands and this information can be shared further with other nefarious parties.

Rahul Thadani