Protecting Your Identity Online

Last week was National Consumer Protection Week, and it’s an important reminder to get informed about how to avoid scams, maximize your online security, and protect your identity. Social media and cell phones make it easier than ever before for thieves to take advantage of you, so this issue is becoming more important every day. In fact, the U.S. Bureau of Justice Statistics estimates that 16.6 million people—or roughly 7 percent of Americans 16 and older—were victims of identity theft in 2012 alone. I’ve created a page on my website that lists a variety of resources you can use to keep yourself safe. Check it out here.

Seniors adjusting to the latest technology can be vulnerable to scams and phishing schemes, where they are persuaded to send money or personal information to a seemingly trustworthy source. You can find information on how to avoid hackers and viruses here. Unfortunately, it’s not just adults that are being targeted; child identity theft is a growing crime because the probability of discovery is low. I was disturbed to learn that children are as much as 50 percent more likely than adults to be identity theft victims. These crimes take longer to discover because most parents don’t monitor their children’s credit. You can get information on internet safety for kids here, and learn how to protect their identity here.

I encourage you to visit my website to get educated on consumer protection, and contact me if you’re interested in taking part in future town hall meetings or telephone calls with experts that can help you stay safe. Select “Consumer Protection” in the drop-down menu, and I’ll notify you about future events.