Kroll Fraud Solutions Blog – A Dialogue on Data Security

Tip #2 Be a good example. Practicing good identity protection habits may affect the habits of those around you in a positive way. When you routinely keep your identification documents secure, check your existing accounts for accuracy, make wise choices while using the internet, and employ personal computer security measures, you are leading by example and may empower your family members, friends, and co-workers to do the same.

Millions of people have an online presence through various social networking sites and other communication channels – the ease with which you can share and find information attracts a lot of consumers and businesses alike. Of course, this also attracts scammers and identity thieves. A business that engages consumers through social media channels will most likely have a social media policy for employees. In the same vein, consumers should develop their own social media policies. Setting rules and guidelines before going online is a deterrent to making mistakes that can divulge sensitive information or personal identifying information (PII).

A frequent comment that our Licensed Investigators hear is, “I don’t know how I became a victim of identity theft – I shred everything!”

While a good crosscut paper shredder is a very important tool in the disposal of personal identifying information (PII), the reality is there is no one-step practice to reducing the chance that you’ll become a victim. Similarly, although a regular review of your credit report for activity that you don’t recognize is another helpful tool, the vast majority of fraudulent activity – as much as 80 percent – will never appear on a credit report.