Identity theft is one of the biggest dangers on the Internet. But what can users do about it? Here are the most important tips to help you protect yourself from identity theft and be able to react quickly.
-A recent study by cybersecurity brand Norton-
When it comes to identity theft, the case often starts with a hacked database. Companies from the healthcare sector, retail, the financial sector and authorities are often of particular interest to criminals. Here you can gain access to personal data from hundreds to millions of people in one fell swoop.
But even one answered phishing email can be the beginning of the identity theft nightmare. Sometimes it's even easier for criminals: just one entry in a public register can provide enough usable data for identity theft.
Protect your data before potential identity theft can occur
Identity theft is often difficult to detect. This can quickly become a problem because many users don't know how to react. This is also shown by a current study by the cybersecurity brand Norton:
- 57 percent of Germans surveyed do not know what they should do in the event of identity theft, although 55 percent of Germans surveyed are very worried about becoming a victim.[1]
- 19 percent of the German parent couples surveyed with children under the age of 18 stated that their offspring had already passed on personal information online.[1]
- 79 percent of German adults surveyed say that their children under 18 are at least somewhat likely to share their personal information or that of their family members online. Of these, 45 percent of respondents are of the opinion that this is very or extremely likely to be the case.[2]
As a rule, prevention is always the best option. That's why the best way to protect yourself from online identity theft is to follow a few simple but important habits.
Be suspicious of emails
Do not respond to emails that ask you to click a link, also known as phishing. Phishing can come in different forms. You will usually be asked to enter your login details or confirm your details. They often claim that your account has been hacked or create a sense of urgency so that you don't think about what is being asked here. If you have any doubts, contact your provider directly. Don't click on links or attachments if the email looks suspicious. The email could be infected with malware that leaks your personal information to hackers.
Pay attention to your data on social networks
Be careful on social media. Cybercriminals often use cloned accounts to pretend to be someone you trust and then target you with social engineering scams. This is a common method of gaining access to other people's accounts or finding out personal information.
If, despite all the caution, there is uncertainty about whether you have fallen victim to identity theft due to the many challenges we face in the online world, it helps to take the following steps into account. The first indication could be an online order that you didn't expect, a strange debit on your bank statement or even a notification from your bank. If you believe your identity has been stolen, you should act as quickly as possible.
The following tips will help you keep track even in hectic situations:
- Watch out for strange charges: A sign of identity theft is strange charges on your credit card or bank statement.
If cybercriminals get hold of your card details, they can use it to open online shopping accounts in your name. It is quite easy to overlook an unauthorized debit. Therefore, take your time and contact your bank immediately if something seems suspicious. - Report a claim: If you have identity theft insurance, you should report your claim immediately.
This can be a standalone policy or you can take out the protection as part of your home contents insurance. Identity theft insurance can offset the significant costs involved or help with the legal costs that can arise from identity fraud. - Change your passwords: Change the passwords of all your online accounts.
Otherwise, the identity thieves could access multiple accounts or even lock you out. Watch for unusual or unexpected logins that could indicate a problem. However, as a priority, you should secure all your accounts with new, complex passwords and two-factor authentication. - Contact your bank: If you think one of your bank cards or accounts has been stolen, contact your bank, building society or credit card provider immediately.
They usually have emergency numbers where you can check a charge, block your account or cancel a card. The sooner you act, the less damage a cybercriminal can cause. - Contact the affected businesses: If you spot a suspicious purchase on your card or notice that someone has used your name to open new accounts, you need to follow up with the relevant businesses. Explain the situation, close any accounts that have been opened, and collect all relevant information before contacting the authorities.
Please also read
– Enough fraud: Identity theft – Recommendations for action in the event of data misuse
– Identity theft can affect anyone – And now?
– Identity theft on the Internet.
Emergency addresses if your profile has been hacked. – Identity theft on Facebook
Source: press release / study / Norton
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