The post Synthetic Identity Theft: What It Is and How It Works appeared first on IdentityIQ written by Kristin Austin

With the internet, we can access vast amounts of information with only a click or tap. This year, the total number of internet users worldwide reached 5.18 billion, nearly two-thirds of the world’s population. And as immense as the internet is, so are the risks.

To make sure that your time spent online is enjoyable and risk-free, this article provides seven simple internet safety tips. But first, let’s take a look at what internet safety really entails.

Understanding the Basics of Internet Safety

Think of the internet as a vast, crowded city. Just as you’d be cautious in a crowded place, you need to show caution online. Many threats lurk in its corners.

What are these threats? Viruses, the most common ones, can harm your computer or steal data. Then there’s phishing, in which scammers trick you into disclosing personal information. Another threat is ransomware, which locks your files and asks for money to unlock them.

The global cost of cybercrime reached an astounding $8.44 trillion last year.

Learning about cyberthreats is the first step to defending against them. However, dangers evolve over time. Knowing about internet safety means being informed, paying attention, and making wise decisions. As we go further into specific online safety tips, keep in mind these basic principles.

#1 Use Anti-Virus and Anti-Malware Software

When you use the internet, your computer can become a target for harmful programs. These programs, known as malware, can hurt your computer, take your personal info, and even lock your files until you pay a ransom. So, how can you maintain safe internet browsing? The answer is simple: anti-virus and anti-malware software.

Anti-virus software works like a security guard for your computer. It checks everything that enters your system. When it spots a threat, it quickly acts to block or remove it. There are threats that can spread from one file to another, encrypt your files, or monitor what you do.

But in order for the software to function properly, it is necessary to update it regularly. Every day, cybercriminals find new ways to get sensitive info. When you update your antivirus software, you make sure it knows about the newest dangers, enabling it to protect your device.

IdentityIQ offers antivirus with Bitdefender® Total Security.

#2 Keep Your Browser Updated

You use your browser to navigate the vast digital landscape. Making sure it’s up to date is a critical step in ensuring your online safety.

Why are browser updates so important? First, every update often includes security enhancements. Developers continuously identify and fix vulnerabilities in their browsers. Updates provide these fixes and reduce your risk of malicious attacks.

Besides security reasons, an updated browser offers better functionality. Websites evolve, adopting new technologies to improve user experience. Older browsers may not support these changes, causing display issues or site restrictions.

So, how can you keep your browser updated? Here are some steps:

1. Open your browser. This might seem basic, but it’s the starting point.
2. Go to the settings or options menu. In the top right corner, a gear icon or three vertical dots typically represents it.
3. Find the “About” or “Update” section. This is where you can view your current browser version and see if updates are available.
4. Follow the prompts. If an update is available, there will often be clear instructions to guide you through the process.

#3: Make Sure Websites Are Secure

When you shop at a store, you probably look for signs that tell you it’s a reputable place. Similarly, when browsing online, it’s crucial to ensure the websites you visit have features that show they are secure.

1. First, check the website’s URL. Secure sites begin with “https://”, not just “http://”. “S” stands for “secure” and indicates that data sent between your browser and the website is encrypted, making it harder for cybercriminals to intercept.
2. Next, look for a padlock icon in the address bar. This icon assures that the website has a security certificate. Your credit card numbers or passwords are protected when entered on that site.
3. Avoid entering any personal information on websites that lack these indicators. It takes a moment to check, but it can save you from many potential online threats.

Secure websites protect your data when shopping, banking, or connecting online. Always ensure websites you visit value your security as much as you do.

#4: Go Private on Public Wi-Fi

Public Wi-Fi spots in coffee shops, airports, and malls offer a convenient way to stay connected. But connecting to these open networks can make you vulnerable. Cybercriminals often target these unsecured networks to access personal data from unsuspecting users. How can you guard against these threats?

1. You should first examine the network’s credibility. Before connecting, double-check that the network name matches the official name of the establishment. Cybercriminals will sometimes create networks with similar names in order to trick users.
2. Prefer to use password-protected networks. This indicates that at least a basic level of security is in place.
3. Make use of virtual private networks (VPNs). VPNs encrypt your data, making it more difficult to access for hackers. Turn on your VPN before connecting to public Wi-Fi.

While public Wi-Fi offers convenience, it’s essential to prioritize your safety. Taking a moment to secure internet browsing can prevent online threats. IdentityIQ offers secure browsing with Bitdefender® VPN.

#5: Be Wary of Links and Attachments

The internet is a hub of information, and often, this information reaches us in the form of links and attachments. Many are harmless and from trusted sources, but others can be traps from cybercriminals. It’s crucial to pause before you click.

Clicking on suspicious links can expose your device to threats. Some links can lead you to phishing sites. Others may initiate the download of harmful software without your knowledge.

Attachments in emails can be just as risky. When you open a document or image, you may unknowingly install malware.

To protect yourself, avoid clicking on links from unknown sources. If an email looks out of the ordinary, even if it’s from someone you know, be cautious.

You should also check the URL before you click. If it looks odd or misspelled, it might be a sign of a malicious site.

Don’t download attachments unless you’re expecting them, and always verify the source. A quick web search can often tell you if the company or person is legitimate.

#6: Use a Password Manager

Remembering a different, strong password for every account can be a hassle. This is where password managers come in.

A password manager stores all your passwords in a digital vault, accessible only by a master password. It saves you time by automatically filling in login details when visiting a website.

There are more perks to using a password manager. Many of them can generate random and strong passwords for you. Another advantage is that the stored passwords are encrypted. This means even if someone breaks into the vault, your passwords remain safe.

Choosing a password manager might seem daunting, but there are a few things to consider that can help. Look for one that offers two-factor authentication. This adds an extra layer of security. You should also check reviews and see if the password manager has a good track record.

#7: Be Careful What You Download

The internet offers an endless array of software, apps, and files for download. From fun games to helpful tools, there’s something for everyone. But not all downloads are safe. Cybercriminals often hide malware in appealing packages, hoping you’ll download it without thinking.

Have you ever seen a pop-up on a website offering a free tool or game? Sometimes, these are genuine offers, but other times they are traps. When downloading from such sources, you risk getting more than expected. Instead of a fun game, you might get malware that can steal your data or damage your device.

But what about drive-by downloads? These are sneakier. Some malicious websites try to install software on your computer without your knowledge. You might just be browsing, and behind the scenes the site attempts to put malware on your device.

Always be selective about what you download. Use trusted websites. Check reviews and do a quick search about the software or file you’re considering.

Bottom Line

Your device and personal data are valuable. It should be clear that awareness and action are the keys to enjoying the online world while avoiding its pitfalls. The internet safety tips we’ve discussed here are your tools. They are simple, straightforward, and effective.

Taking a few extra minutes to include them when browsing can save you a lot of trouble. If you use them consistently, you and your loved ones will be protected online. Always do your best to keep yourself safe, informed, and proactive.

Further safeguard yourself from potential threats with the assistance of IdentityIQ identity theft protection services. Benefit from cutting-edge identity theft monitoring and receive immediate alerts when suspicious activity is detected.

The post 7 Internet Safety Tips for Safer Internet Browsing appeared first on IdentityIQ written by Brian Acton

Understanding the Importance of Your Social Security Number

Social Security Numbers (SSNs) are unique identifying numbers assigned to U.S. citizens and eligible residents. Your SSN is used to identify you with a wide variety of third-party organizations, from government agencies to businesses.

Criminals who gain access to your SSN may use it to steal your identity, damage your credit, and access your financial accounts.

When Is It Safe to Share My Social Security Number?

In some cases, it is reasonably safe to share your SSN:

• When you apply for credit, the lender needs your SSN to check your credit.
• When you file your tax returns.
• When you open accounts with certain banks.
• When you request services from government agencies like the Department of Labor.
• When you request copies of your credit reports from Experian®, Equifax®, and TransUnion®.

7 Practical Tips to Protect Your Social Security Number

1. Don’t Send Your SSN in a Message via an Electronic Device

Don’t send your SSN in a message, such as an email, text, or instant message, from your electronic device. These messages could be intercepted or forwarded along to other third parties. If you must provide your SSN, it’s better to do it in person or using a secure system (such as a lender’s online application portal).

2. Don’t Give It Out to Strangers

Never share your SSN with a stranger who requests it over the phone. You should contact the organization directly through their official communication channels.

3. Monitor Your Bank and Credit Card Accounts

When someone has access to your SSN, they may be able to access your financial accounts. Monitor your accounts, read your monthly statements, and report any unauthorized transactions. You can also check if your bank has additional security features including:

• Biometric logins that require facial or fingerprint recognition to access your mobile account.
• Multifactor authentication that requires an additional verification step when logging into your account.
• Alerts that notify you when your account is overdrawn, transactions exceed a certain amount, or if someone uses your SSN to access your account.

4. Consider an Identity Protection Service

Identity protection services look for signs of identity theft and warn you when your information is compromised. They can also help you lock down your SSN and protect your identity. With IdentityIQ identity theft protection services you get:

• Regular copies of your credit report and credit scores.
• Alerts when there are significant changes in your credit report.
• Dark web monitoring.
• Identity restoration services and identity theft insurance, underwritten by AIG.

5. Don’t Carry Your Social Security Card in Your Wallet

There are certain scenarios when you may need your physical Social Security card, such as when you start a new job, or you need to use it as a form of identification. But most of the time, you should not carry your Social Security card with you.

6. Don’t Forget to Protect Your Child’s SSN

Criminals can commit fraud using your child’s SSN and go undiscovered for years until the child applies for credit as an adult. Here are some tips to protect your child’s SSN:

• Keep track of your child’s SSN and protect it like you would your own.
• Pre-emptively freeze your child’s credit using their birth certificate.
• Teach your child online safety and good data security habits.

7. Ask How and Why It Will Be Handled

When a medical provider, business, school, or other organization requests a SSN, make sure you ask the following questions:

• Why do you need my SSN?
• How will you protect my SSN?
• Can I use an alternative method of identification?
• Can you use the last four digits of my SSN instead of the entire number?

Just because someone asks for your SSN doesn’t mean you have to provide it. For example, you can leave the SSN field blank on many medical forms and still receive medical services without any issue.

Advanced Measures for SSN Protection

1. Encrypting Your Data

You can use a virtual private network (VPN) to encrypt your web traffic and route your online activity through a server belonging to the VPN provider. Your data is effectively hidden from third parties that wish to view it, including when you share your SSN online. Remember, even when using a VPN, you should never share your SSN when it isn’t absolutely necessary.

2. Blocking Electronic Access to Your SSN

If your SSN has been compromised, you can request the Social Security Administration to block electronic access by calling 800-772-1213. This stops all automated telephone and electronic access to your Social Security record.

3. Using Self Lock Features

Employment identity theft occurs when someone uses your SSN to gain employment. You can place a “Self Lock” to lock your SSN and prevent it from being used by E-Verify, a web-based system that employers use to confirm employment eligibility.

What to Do If Your Social Security Number is Compromised

If you discover that your SSN was stolen or compromised, take these steps to protect your identity:

• Report the fraud to the FTC at IdentityTheft.gov or by calling 877-382-4357.
• Place a fraud alert or credit freeze on your credit report with Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion.
• Check your credit report and dispute inaccurate information with the major credit bureaus.
• File a police report and provide a copy of your identity theft report from the FTC.
• Continue to monitor your financial accounts and report unauthorized transactions.
• Report fraud to the SSA and check your Social Security statements.
• Contact the IRS if your SSN was used to file a fraudulent tax return or to gain employment.

Consider signing up for identity theft monitoring by IdentityIQ services that proactively monitors your SSN and warns you about signs of fraud. You gain identity theft protection, real-time fraud alerts, and assistance when you need to recover your identity.

The post How to Protect Your Social Security Number: 7 Tips to Secure Your SSN appeared first on IdentityIQ written by Brian Acton

The post The Ultimate Guide to Child Identity Theft: Types, Warning Signs & Prevention Strategies appeared first on IdentityIQ written by Kristin Austin

The post What to Do If My Email Is Found on The Dark Web? appeared first on IdentityIQ written by Kristin Austin

The post Are College Students Targeted by Identity Thieves? appeared first on IdentityIQ written by Kristin Austin

Every day, criminals scour the internet for personal information they can use to commit fraud and identity theft. In this digital age, individuals need to take steps to protect their privacy and information from fraudsters.

This is as true for children as it is for adults, as kids can be victims of identity theft well before they reach adulthood. Social media can be a valuable trove of information for identity thieves looking to assume the identity of children.

Sharing too much information about your kids on social media platforms can actually leave them more vulnerable.

How Thieves Can Use Social Media to Gain Information

Proud parents who came of age using social media may not think twice about sharing comments or photos of their kids. It’s a convenient way to keep friends and family up to date, no matter where they are.

But when you share information about your kids, you are creating an online footprint that your child has little to no control over. And some of the information you share can be valuable to identity thieves.

Your child’s name, age and birth date are three key pieces of information that can be used for fraud. Identity thieves can troll social media platforms for public posts that give them clues to these pieces of information. Even restricted posts could be used or sold by an unscrupulous friend or family member.

For example, a post about your newborn baby could clue an identity thief onto your child’s name and birth date.

The Consequences of Identity Theft for a Child

Most forms of identity theft require a Social Security number. But if a criminal has already accessed your child’s SSN, they can fill in the rest of the pieces from social media to open fraudulent accounts in your child’s name. With synthetic identity theft, thieves may combine certain bits of information about your child with falsified information to create a fake identity using your child’s SSN.

Identity theft of a child can go undetected for years. Most parents don’t think to check their child’s SSN, and the child can’t apply for credit until they’re 18. Once your child has a credit check for a loan, credit card or apartment lease they may discover his or her SSN has been compromised.

While the victim won’t be held legally responsible for financial losses caused by identity theft, they may need to spend months or even years cleaning up the mess and regaining control of his or her SSN. This can involve a lot of red tape and even out-of-pocket expenses.

How to Avoid Oversharing on Social Media

Be mindful when posting pictures or talking about your kids online, especially in public social media forums. Keep in mind that even if your posts are private, friends and family can potentially use your child’s information.

Check and customize the privacy policies and settings of any website you use. You may be able to keep photos restricted only to specific individuals, for example. But in general, you may want to consider the implications of sharing photos and information about your children before they can consent.

It’s a good idea to hold back from sharing too much information about your child, including their full name and birth date. Even a happy birthday post could clue an identity thief onto your child’s birth date.

Always know what information is collected by the websites you use. Under federal law, websites must get a parent’s permission before they collect data from children under the age of 13.

Monitor Their Online Behavior and Teach Best Practices

Once your child is online, it’s a good idea to be aware of their online habits and help kids avoid sharing private information or visiting dangerous websites. You can act as a copilot as your child learns to navigate the web and use software to monitor their online activity.

Make sure to teach your kids good privacy habits, including:

• Avoiding sharing names, phone numbers, addresses, passwords and other personal information
• Avoiding clicking links or opening attachments from unverified sources
• And never message with strangers.

Remember, the information your children share online can come back to haunt them even if it doesn’t lead to identity theft. Pictures or comments can be tied to your child’s name and reputation forever. Make sure your child understands the information they share online has real life consequences.

The post How Oversharing About Your Kids on Social Media Can Lead to Identity Theft appeared first on IdentityIQ written by Brian Acton

The post How to Help Protect Minor Children from Synthetic Identity Theft appeared first on IdentityIQ written by Brian Acton

Child identity theft is becoming a serious and costly problem that can affect families long after their children become adults. In fact, more than a million children were affected by identity theft and it cost families more than $540 million out of pocket in 2017 alone.

Do you feel confident spotting the signs of child identity theft before it’s too late for your family? Here’s what every parent needs to know.

Why Child Identity Theft Happens

According to that same study by Javelin Strategy, two-thirds of the victims were 7 years old or younger and 6 in 10 of the victims knew the fraudster personally. Children aged 6-11 were the most vulnerable group.

A child’s stolen information can be used to:

• • Open new lines of credit
  • Open new bank accounts
  • Apply for jobs and loans
  • List the child as a dependent on a fraudulent tax return
  • Give false information to law enforcement

If an identity thief obtains a child’s information and uses it to commit fraud, it could go unnoticed for years if the child’s credit is not being actively monitored. The child’s personal Identifiable information could then be sold on the black market at a premium because child identity theft is so much more likely to go unnoticed until the child begins applying for housing, student loans, jobs, and credit cards as an adult.

The longer your child’s identity has been compromised, the longer it takes to recover their credit.

3 Tips to Prevent Child Identity Theft

Fortunately, there are steps you can take to protect the identity of your child. While nobody is safe from external threats like data breaches or skimming, there are ways to monitor your child’s credit in case something happens and prevent information from falling into the wrong hands.

1. Keep track of your child’s personally identifiable information (PII):

This information could include:

• The child’s full names
• Social security number
• Driver’s license number
• Passport number
• Bank account number
• Doctor’s records
• School Photos with names attached

Think of all the places that may store your child’s sensitive information. It could be stored at their doctor’s offices, schools, daycares, and even your accountant’s office. It may be stored either digitally or physically. Even a school picture with your child’s name attached could be used to identify them on social media and then used to steal their identity.

Make sure that forms or any papers containing sensitive information are kept in a safe place and shredded before disposal.

Never give out your child’s information without ensuring that there are security measures in place to protect it. Ask the following questions of any organization that keeps track of sensitive personal data:

• Where are the forms and papers stored physically? Are all papers shredded before disposal?
• Where is my child’s information stored digitally? What kind of online security protocols are in place to deter hackers from accessing it?
• Who else has access to my child’s personal information?
• When my child is no longer a patient/student/etc., what happens to their personal information?

2. Consider freezing your child’s credit

You can choose to pre-emptively place a freeze on your child’s credit with all three of the major credit bureaus – Equifax^®, Experian^®, and TransUnion^® – to ensure that no fraudulent lines of credit will be opened in their name until the freeze is lifted.

You’ll need the same kind of documentation you’d need to freeze your own credit. You’ll also need a birth certificate and proof that you have the authority to freeze their credit. You’ll also need to request the freeze from each bureau separately:

• Equifax freeze request form for minors Experian only allows freezes on minors 14 years or older Transunion fraud alert and freeze forms for minors

If you choose to freeze your child’s credit, be very careful! You’re required to supply a specific PIN number to lift or ‘thaw’ the credit freeze once your child becomes an adult, which could mean keeping track of a pin number for a decade or longer. If you’re worried about keeping track of a PIN, consider a family identity theft protection policy instead.

3. Talk with your child about the importance of online safety

Make sure that your child is aware of the importance of online safety. The more they understand the dangers of sharing sensitive information online, the safer they’ll be.

Talk with your children about:

• Interacting with strangers online
• Filling out online contact forms
• Creating accounts on websites
• Signing up for certain services or online shopping

Monitor their internet usage and ensure they are steering clear of dangerous sites and other internet users who might cause them harm.

Warning Signs of Child Identity Theft

The following could signal that your child’s identity is under attack:

• Unpaid fine notices: If your child receives notices about unpaid fines when they apply for their driver’s license, this could mean they are already a victim of identity theft.
• Credit card mail offers: If you receive mail addressed to your child about credit cards that they’ve pre-qualified for, a card may have already be open in their name. Rather than ignoring it because you think it’s a mistake or technical error, take steps to ensure that no fraud has occurred.
• Being denied government benefits: If your child is denied for government benefits like food stamps or health care, or you are unable to claim them as a dependent on your taxes, it’s possible that someone has already used their social security number for these purposes.
• IRS notices addressed to your child: If an IRS notice states that your child hasn’t paid required income taxes or that their SSN has been used on a tax return, it’s time to investigate for identity theft.
• Collection calls and bills in their name: If you’re getting calls about money owed or you receive bills in the name of your child, their information may have been used fraudulently to make purchases.

What to do if Your Child’s Identity is Stolen

If you’re suspicious that your child is a victim of identity theft, contact the three major credit bureaus. Reach out to all three separately when taking these steps. Here’s what to cover:

• Request a manual search of your child’s file: A manual search will examine all files associated with both their name and social security number and files with only their social security number.
• Request to remove information associated with your child: You can then request that each credit bureau remove all information that is associated with your child’s name or social security number upon providing them with a copy of the Uniform Minor’s Status Declaration, which proves that your child is indeed a minor.
• Request a fraud alert: For this step, you only need to call one of the three major bureaus because they’ll contact the other two. Place a fraud alert on your child’s credit report to be notified whenever their Social Security number is used.
• Contact the business where fraud occurred: Let them know that your child is a minor and that the account activity was fraudulent. Request that they close the account and do not hold your child liable for any purchases.
• Consider a credit freeze: If your child was a victim of identity theft, it’s a good idea to freeze their report to ensure the thief cannot continue to use their information. This step is absolutely critical until their identity is secure again.
• Report any suspicious activity: Report identity theft to the FTC by calling 877-438-4338, or visiting IdentityTheft.gov.
• Consider identity theft protection: It can quickly identify signs of identity theft while providing 24/7 credit report monitoring.

The post Child Identity Theft: Prevention & Protection Guide appeared first on IdentityIQ written by Michael Scheumack

The internet is an amazing source of information, but it also contains many unique threats. One important concern in the digital age is online privacy; thieves, hackers, and other criminals may be trying to access your data and information for their own personal gain.

Kids are just as vulnerable as adults (if not more so), as they can be targeted for identity theft, scams, and other predatory behavior before they’ve developed the skills to protect themselves. Just as you take steps to guard your children in the physical world, you should try to keep them safe on the internet.

Here are five strategies for protecting your child’s privacy online.

   1. Don’t Overshare Information

When you’re a proud parent, you may be naturally inclined to share photos and information about your children online. But you should be careful about the information you share and be aware of the privacy settings on the websites and apps you use.

Be careful when posting pictures of your kids online, especially in public forums that can be accessed by anyone. Before you do share photos, check the privacy policies and settings of the website – you may be able to keep photos visible only to those individuals you approve (or at least, only to those you’ve added to your friends list).

It’s also a good idea to hold back from sharing too much information about your child. Sharing information about you and your child’s location leaves you vulnerable to a number of criminal activities, and even sharing your child’s full name could increase the risk of child identity theft.

Always know what information the websites you use collect about you and your children. Under federal law, websites must have a parent’s permission before they collect information from children under the age of 13.

   2. Watch Your Child’s Online Habits

It’s a good idea to be aware of your child’s online habits to help them avoid sharing private information or visiting dangerous websites. Keeping computers out in the open, rather than in more private areas such as bedrooms, can help you monitor your child’s online activity. Young children could benefit from an adult copilot as they learn to use technology and navigate the web.

You may also want to monitor internet activity using browser history or more robust computer monitoring tools. Software programs can help you monitor internet usage and block unsafe or adult websites.

These methods can apply to tablets, phones, and other mobile devices as well.

   3. Set Enforceable Rules

As the parent, you can set rules around your child’s online time. You may want to set time limits for internet use and restrict which websites your child can visit. A list of enforceable house rules – along with consequences for breaking them – can be posted by the computer or attached to the family tablet.

Any rule list should include restrictions on the information children share about themselves and others, which leads to the next strategy:

   4. Teach Good Privacy Habits

You can teach your kids to protect their personal information online. Make sure they understand good privacy practices, including:

• Never sharing names, phone numbers, email addresses, passwords, school information, or pictures of themselves, friends, or family members without your permission.
• Never clicking links or opening attachments in emails from people or sources they can’t verify.
• Never messaging with strangers.
• Never meeting up in person with anyone they meet online.

Remember, even if your child isn’t risking their privacy, the information they share online could come back to haunt them. An inappropriate picture, mean comments, or online rants are all easy mistakes for children and young adults to fall into – but those actions can have real life consequences. Make sure your child understands that the information they share online can be permanently attached to their name.

   5. Practice Good Habits Yourself

You can teach your kids by example. Make sure to follow good online security habits and protect your personal data and privacy as well. Be careful about the information you share on social media, make sure to use websites you can trust, and protect your personal data from thieves. A good rule of thumb? Avoid sharing any information online that you wouldn’t volunteer to a stranger.

The post 5 Strategies for Protecting Your Child’s Privacy Online appeared first on IdentityIQ written by Brian Acton