Tax season is always a good time to remind people about protecting their identity. Mobile banking apps, on-line retailers, email accounts, tax returns are all ways your identity could be stolen. Criminals can use these to access your money causing you financial problems and unnecessary time with trying to fix your credit rating. All consumers must remain vigilant. It is also important to help those that may be less savvy with computers such as elderly relatives or those that do not use computers or smart phones often. The ability to keep your information safe and secure should be paramount. There are many ways to deter criminals and several resources can be found on-line. Here are just a few good reminders:
-Never give account passwords over the phone or email.
-Shred mail or paperwork that has personal identifying information on it.
-Always review credit card statements monthly and look at each charge carefully.
-Review your credit report annually.
-Use anti-virus software.
-Change your passwords on a regular basis and use two-factor authentication when possible. This is a secondary security step where a code via email or text message is sent to verify it is you.