Identity Theft and Your Computer
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Be sure you are applying patches and updates to your PC’s operating system on a regular basis. If using a newer Windows operating system, be sure to use the automatic updates feature. -
Do not reply to unsolicited emails and be wary of email you receive asking you to click on a link to visit a company Web site. Opening a file could expose your system to a computer virus or a program that could hijack your modem.
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Ensure you have current anti-virus and firewall software installed on your PC and enable the automatic update feature. Use a firewall, especially if you have an “always on” connection to the Internet. The firewall allows you to limit uninvited access to your computer. Run virus scans regularly and remove any spyware found.
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Financial information should only be stored on a computer when absolutely necessary and then password protected.
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Use a secure browser to guard the safety of your online transactions. The browser should encrypt or scramble information that you send over the Internet. Look for the “lock” icon on the status bar of your browser; this symbol indicates your information is secure during transmission.
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Avoid using an automatic log-in feature that saves your user name and password and always log off when finished.
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Before disposing of old computers erase the entire hard drive; use a “wipe” utility program, which overwrites the entire hard drive and makes the files unrecoverable.
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Review the privacy policies or statements posted on Web sites to ensure you understand how the information you provide will be used and shared with other organizations.
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If you are the victim of identity theft, go to the Identity Theft Web site set up by the Canadian Privacy Commissioner at http://www.privcom.gc.ca/fs-fi/02_05_d_10_e.asp. There you will find a list of resolution steps to take if your identity has been stolen.
This information has been brought to you by Lowey Insurance and Peace Hills Insurance.
Thursday, May 25, 2006