You know what’s really scary? Having your accounts and identity compromised through a cybersecurity breach! However, you aren’t powerless; you have the ability to protect your accounts and identity from a breach. Take these four steps to keep yourself protected.
Monitor
- If you suspect fraud, freeze your credit. Call the three credit agencies
that monitor and protect consumers’ credit – Equifax (800-525-6285), Experian (888-397-3742) and TransUnion (800-680-7289). - Consider purchasing identity theft protection, such as LifeLock or others.
Protect
- Create unique login ids and passwords and do not use your email address as part of your login.
- Enable two-factor authentication.
- Ensure your current email address and phone number are on file so you can be contacted in real time in case of fraud.
- Sign up for voice biometrics if offered.
Safeguard
- Back up your data.
- Use trusted payment systems and never use a debit card for online purchases.
- Protect your mail by signing up for the U.S. Postal Service’s free Informed Delivery Service.
Secure
- Use firewall and anti-virus software on your personal devices.
- Use only trusted devices for sensitive transactions.
- Don’t conduct sensitive transactions over public wi-fi such as that in an airport or coffee shop, for example.
- Secure your mobile devices and services with a password.