Identity theft is a growing problem in Canada. Every year thousands of Canadians fall victim to it. While the Internet and computers have made our lives easier in a lot of ways, it’s also made it easier for fraudsters to steal your personal and financial information. The good news is there are ways you can protect yourself. Let’s take a look at what identity theft is and how you can prevent it.
What is Identity Theft?
Identity theft is the deliberate use of another person’s identity, usually for financial gain. Identity theft comes in all different shapes and sizes. It can be something as simple as stealing someone’s mail or more sophisticated like hacking into your computer. Even companies aren’t safe from data breaches. There have been countless stories of personal data breaches over the years.
The aftermath of identity theft can leave you in financial ruins. Not only could fraudsters ruin your credit, but you could also suffer thousands of dollars in losses. This can hurt your ability to get credit later on when you need it if you want to get a mortgage or car loan.
How to Prevent Identity Theft
You don’t just have to sit idly by hoping you aren’t the victim of identity theft. There are things you can do to be proactive and prevent it. You should be extra careful about handing over personal and financial information, especially your address, date of birth, social insurance number (SIN) and credit card information. If someone were to obtain those online they could assume your identity.
Without further ado here are our best tips on how to prevent identity theft.
Safeguard Personal Information
Be extra cautious when sharing your personal information. Examples of sharing personal information include buying goods online and filling in an application for employment. Before willing handing over your personal data, you should ask why it’s needed and how it will be used.
Be even more careful with your SIN. If your SIN ends up in the hands of fraudsters, your credit could be damaged. Unless your SIN is absolutely required, it’s best to leave it off a form.
Protect Your Wallet or Purse
Hold onto your wallet and purse and keep eyes on them at all times. A criminal will have hit the jackpot if they obtain them. When you bring your wallet or purse with you, it’s a good idea to leave as much of your personal data at home. For example, don’t make the common mistake of bringing your SIN card everywhere with you. Only bring it when you truly need it.
Be Cautious with Your Credit Card
You should be cautious when sharing your credit card information with anyone. Although the majority of credit cards have zero liability protection where you aren’t at fault if your credit card is fraudulently used, it’s still a good idea to be proactive and takes steps to prevent it from happening in the first place.
Although it’s convenient, don’t save your credit card information directly on websites. If the website is ever hacked, your credit card information could be stolen.
Also, only share your credit card information with companies that you trust. Don’t ever give it to an incoming caller unless you’re 100 percent certain who it is.
Looking to rebuild your credit after being the victim of identity theft? Contact our offices today to come up with a game plan.
Climb’s Personalized Credit Prescription provides you with customized recommendations to help rebuild your credit score.
About the Author
Sean Cooper is the bestselling author of the book, Burn Your Mortgage: The Simple, Powerful Path to Financial Freedom for Canadians. He bought his first house when he was only 27 in Toronto and paid off his mortgage in just 3 years by age 30. An in-demand Personal Finance Journalist, Money Coach and Speaker, his articles and blogs have been featured in publications such as the Toronto Star, Globe and Mail, Financial Post and MoneySense. Connect with Sean on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.
