This week is National Consumer Protection Week
With identity theft, viruses and ransomware on a sharp rise, we want to call your attention to some great resources that will enable you to lower your risk of becoming a victim.
Password Security. Here are a few quick, timeless tips:
- Use long, complex passwords. 8 or more characters, upper and lowercase letters, numbers, special characters. (consider using a passphrase).
- Use different passwords for each site you login to. Many times, the real damage occurs because a criminal gets a password to one site and uses that password to access sensitive information on another site.
- Change your passwords regularly. If your password should be compromised, this can help limit the damage.
- Consider using a password manager. Password managers keep your passwords encrypted. You only have to remember 1 master password. Many password managers will let you know which passwords are weak and may even generate strong passwords for you. Popular password managers are: 1Password, RoboForm, LastPass and Dashlane.
How to Prevent a Criminal From Filing a Fake Tax Return In Your Name
Criminals who have access to your social security number and other personal information may try to file a fake tax return in your name, in order to get a refund. You can protect yourself by keeping your social security and other personal information safely stored, shredding documents that contain personal information and by enrolling for an IRS Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN).
An IP PIN is a 6 digit number the IRS will assign you upon your request, or in some cases if there’s been suspicious activity on your account. The IP PIN is required to verify your identity when you file your tax return. You can get information about the IP PIN program here: https://bit.ly/2PNBaE9
For more tips to read, watch, print or order free resources Visit consumer.ftc.gov
Happy Computing
Edward