Many people these days keep a lot of sensitive information stored on their PDAs, laptops and desktop computers. Private information related to bank accounts and credit cards, as well as the accompanying passwords, are frequently stored on these devices. It isn’t hard to imagine the harm that can be done to your credit standing if an identity thief steals these electronic goldmines. Hacking your computer long distance is a typical means for thieves to access your private details. Here are some strategies for keeping your computer secure that might help you to avoid this disastrous situation.

1) Set up your computer so that it needs a password in order to access any files. This should be done for your PDA and laptop also. Change your passwords frequently.

2) Change your computer settings so it doesn’t automatically remember your passwords. A lot of people have chosen the convenience of having their computer remember their passwords and enter them automatically. But it also makes it very easy for an identity thief to log in to your accounts.

3) Install a reliable antivirus program, and let it run at all times. These programs can keep hackers from infiltrating your system and stealing your information.

4) Another area where you need to be careful is with regard to file sharing. If your computer is set up to permit the transfer of data between two computers, you’re more vulnerable to hacking.

5) Phishing is one of the fastest growing methods of illegally collecting confidential information. Typically, you will receive an email that appears to be sent by a legitimate organization. Once you click on the link, you will be asked to verify your password. This information is then captured and used to take over your identity.

One more way to safeguard yourself is by taking out identity theft insurance, which is widely available these days. If your personal information is stolen or compromised, this type of insurance will pay for your costs in rectifying the situation. Postage, the cost of phone calls, and related legal fees are all usually covered. You may also be reimbursed for lost wages in case you missed work while trying to resolve the situation. It’s wise to take out a policy if you think you wouldn’t be able to deal with these expenses otherwise.

Personal identity theft is a growing problem, and many people are worried that they will become a victim of this faceless crime. Learn how to protect yourself at Protect My Identity.

Unfortunately, many of the methods that thieves use to steal identities are beyond your control to guard against. Although it’s rare, even store clerks have been known to use their position to pass along information to identity thieves. There are some measures you can take, however, that will make it harder for a thief to steal your identity.

Protect Your Credit Card Number After It Has Been Swiped When Making A Purchase

Protect your credit card number after It has been swiped when making a purchase, check to make sure that the printed receipt hides all but the last 4 digits of your credit card account number (usually there will be Xs in place of the first 12 digits). Some terminals still print receipts that show all of the account number, and may include the expiration date as well. After your card is swiped, you are permitted by law to hide the first 12 digits of your account number on the copy of the receipt that the vendor retains. A marking pen that will do the job usually.

When you go to a restaurant, it’s especially important to make sure that the first 12 digits of your credit card number are hidden on your receipt. You might be in the habit of signing it and then leaving the restaurant’s copy on the table after your meal. An identity thief can easily steal the signed receipt before the waitperson comes back around to pick it up from the table. Don’t take any chances.

Do You Really Need To Give Your Social Security Number?

Another important way that you can guard against identity theft is to avoid giving out your social security number unless it’s absolutely required. Although you need to share your social security number when you apply for credit or for a bank account, sometimes a store or an organization will want to use it as an ID number, simply to identify you within their system. This is a common practice even though the law says that social security numbers aren’t to be used as ID numbers. In these situations, use your judgment. There’s usually an alternative if you ask.

Destroy Documents That Contain Sensitive Personal Info

Buy a paper shredder and use it to shred documents you are throwing away which contain personal info such as credit card numbers, social security numbers, phone numbers and dates of birth. This is important to do both at home and at work. Identity thieves aren’t above going through someone’s trash to find valuable personal information that can help them obtain credit in your name.

If you are a victim of computer identity theft, take the following steps at once. Contact your credit card companies, shut off your accounts and ask to have new cards issued to you. Place a fraud alert on your file with any one of the three major credit bureaus. The other two will be notified automatically. File a police report. You may need it to show to creditors as proof of the crime.