How well are you protecting your identity — and your finances? Are you up-to-date on the latest techniques that scammers are using? With nearly one in three consumers concerned about the safety of online payments, you’re not alone if you sometimes worry about your personal data. Luckily, there are some easy ways you can help protect it.

 

 

TEXT VERSION

Many are concerned about the security of their personally identifiable information, or PII, which is data that makes up your identity.

  • 21% of consumers believe mobile payments are unsafe1
  • Nearly one out of three consumers (32%) cite security concerns as a top barrier for using mobile payments2

And, advances in technology have resulted in new vulnerabilities and scams.

  • Over $95MM was generated by scammers in 2017 through illicit student debt relief offers3
  • Ransomware is a form of malware where a thief blocks access to a computer system unless a ransom is paid. They were responsible for $3.6 million in losses in 20184
  • Tech support fraud is when a thief claims to provide customer or technical support in order to gain access to your device. Losses increased 161% from 2017 to 20185

Luckily, there are some easy ways you can help protect your PII.

  • Change your passwords frequently and use passwords that would be hard to guess.
  • Shred any documents with your PII before you throw them out, as well as credit card offers.
  • Monitor your account activity, your credit report and credit score.


Sources
1 Auriemma Consulting Group, 2017
2 Auriemma Consulting Group, 2017
3 Federal Trade Commission, 2017
4 Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Internet Crime Complaint Center, 2018
5 Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Internet Crime Complaint Center, 2018