How can I protect myself from identity theft?
Make sure that your personal information is as safe as possible. Here are some suggestions:
- Shred documents containing your personal information before you throw them away.
- Remove mail from your mailbox as soon as possible.
- Do not give personal information like your address or debit or credit card number over the phone or by email to anyone you are not sure about. Or to a door-to-door salesperson.
- Never share your personal information on social media.
- Do not carry your birth certificate, social insurance card, or passport with you unless you need it that day.
- Check your credit report regularly.
To keep your financial information safe:
- Never lend anyone your credit card or debit card.
- Do not give anyone your PIN number.
- When using your credit or debit card in a store, bank machine, or ATM, make sure no one sees your PIN number.
Other safety tips include:
- Do not reply to unusual or suspicious emails. If you’re not sure if the email is safe, ask someone you trust before replying.
- Do not reply to text messages or voicemails from phone numbers you do not know. Delete the message and block the number.
- Use two-factor authentication for all of your online accounts.
- Use secure websites when shopping online or when entering personal information on a website. Look for a lock symbol, and “https://” at the start of the site’s website address.
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