Ways to Avoid Identity Theft

There are a number of things you can do to help prevent Identity Theft occurring to you or your family.

When on the Internet always:

• Use Secure Sites. When submitting information, make sure the website is secure checking if a padlock is showing on the bottom of the browser or the web address starts with "https".
• Use Passwords. Use passwords that are not easy to guess (use a combination of letters and numbers and avoid obvious phrases like names or birthdays). Change passwords regularly and avoid using the password remember feature.
• Install Security Software. These include anti virus, anti spam, pop up stoppers and firewalls.
• Be Careful of Spam. Don't respond to any emails asking for financial details - even if they look authentic.  Banks will never send out these types of emails.
• Remove Personal Information from Your Computer. Don't keep unnecessary personal information (such as tax file numbers or bank account details) on your home computer.
• Attachments. Be careful with attachments - they may contain viruses.
• Watch out for Tricks. Fraudsters may use pop-up windows or other online marketing tricks to try and get your information. Be careful what you click on.
• Be Cautious When Using Public Computers. You may leave valuable personal information behind for others to steal.
• Read Website Policies. If using shopping or auction sites check the privacy policy of the website and read up on any safety tips they may have for you.

And in general:

• Make sure you check all your bank statements for any unexplained entries.
• Don't carry personal information such as pin numbers with you.
• Make sure your letterbox is secured.
• Ensure you tear up any personal information before placing it in the rubbish.