Identity Protection Tips

Dormant online accounts can be particularly easy targets. 

• Close any accounts you don’t use or check them regularly
• Perform regular password resets on all accounts
• Check any money related accounts at least once/month

Tips to protect your SSN and identifiable information*

*Source: IRS

1. Keep your card and any other document that shows your Social Security number in a safe place; DO NOT routinely carry your card or other documents that display your number.
2. Be careful about sharing your number, even when you are asked for it; ONLY share your SSN when absolutely necessary.
3. Protect your personal financial information at home and on your computer.
   • It’s a nuisance, but use passwords and screen locks on your computers and devices
   • Consider an ICE number as your lock screen on your cell phone.
4. Check your credit report annually.
   • Consider a monitor and repair company.
5. Check your Social Security Administration earnings statement annually,
6. Protect your personal computers by using firewalls, anti-spam/virus software, update security patches and change passwords for Internet accounts.
7. Protect your personally identifiable information; keep it private. Only provide your SSN when YOU initiate the contact or you are sure who you know is asking.

File your taxes early. The latest scam is filing a return on behalf of someone else. If you file early, you can diminish this risk.