6 tips for keeping your identity secure online

The Internet has become an undeniably invaluable tool that many Canadians use on a daily basis. However, with more and more people logging on to the World Wide Web, the risk of identity theft has increased. Characterized as when someone knowingly gains access to and uses personal information such as social security numbers, credit card numbers, or your name for their own use, it's estimated that identity theft costs the likes of consumers, banks, and credit card firms some $2.5 billion per year¹.

It’s easy to avoid becoming a victim of identity theft once you’ve become aware of the risks. Below are some tips to help you keep your information safe when you're surfing the web:

1. Practice caution when on public WiFi networks

These days, you can access the Internet just about anywhere. It's common for people to access the Internet from restaurants, coffee shops, the airport, etc. But if you're not using a secure, trusted connection - such as the one that should be in your home – it’s important to be careful of your online behavior. In many cases, public WiFi networks are not secure, thereby allowing hackers the opportunity to gain access to your personal information if you make an online order, log into your bank account, or even just log into your email.

2. Use double verification

While not always convenient, using double verification to access your online accounts can enhance your security. Double verification will permit you to log in from the computer and also submit a code that's sent to your phone. It can help guard against phishing.

3. Switch up your passwords

For convenience, you may have used the same password to log into your bank account, for your email, for social media, for your credit card, etc. Make sure that these passwords are all different and not easy to guess (i.e. "1234"). If a hacker were to crack your password to one account, they'd then have access to all your accounts if the passwords are consistent across the board. When choosing a password, make sure it's a combination of numerals, characters, and special characters.

4. Be on the lookout for spam emails

Phishing campaigns are attempts to steal your personal information. They are usually sent via email, asking the user to click on an attachment or input their social security number by clicking on a link. Many will disguise themselves as your bank to get this information. While most email platforms are good at weeding out spam, the bottom line is that if an email looks fishy, it probably is. Just delete these emails and never give your personal information out to a suspicious source.

5. Only shop on secure websites

When shopping online, always look for the little padlock at the top left of your screen, next to the URL. If it's there, that's the sign of a secure website. If it's not, proceed with caution. Any website that's not reputable could put you at risk.

6. Do not share personal info on social networks

You don’t want to give potential thieves any help when it comes to your identity. You should refrain from posting personal information on your social networks. Also turn off GPS tracking technology on these networks, set your profiles to private, and only accept friends and followers that you know and trust.

Identity theft may be on the rise, but by taking the proper precautions, you can enjoy the World Wide Web worry free. Talk to your insurance provider to see if you are covered from identity theft. If you’re a Servus Insurance Services | Home and Auto homeowner policyholder and you find your identity has been stolen, you may be insured for up to $30,000 so you can concentrate on getting back on track.² Contact a Servus Insurance Services | Home and Auto representative today to learn more.