Tips to Protect Your Identity
While we’re on the subject of passwords, I just received this from E*TRADE:
Identity theft is a serious issue, no matter how it originates. The vast majority of online fraud is a result of a compromised personal computer - when a consumer knowingly or unknowingly discloses identifying information like their user name and password.
By exercising caution and following some basic guidelines, you can reduce your chances of falling victim to online identity theft.
1. Be suspicious of ANY email that asks for sensitive personal
information, even if the sender seems to be familiar.
2. Never open attachments or click links in spam or
unsolicited emails.
3. Avoid filling out forms contained in an email message or pop-
ups, even if they appear to be from a legitimate company with
whom you do business.
4. Run the latest version of a proven anti-virus software program
on your computer. Here’s a nice one: http://www.mcafee.com/.
5. If you have logged on to a Web site, log off when you are
finished and close your browser completely.
