Below are some of the things you need to consider in how to protect your identity from thieves and scoundrels on the Internet around home, and in public. Protecting your identity has become a must do in this age as it has become one of the most prolific crimes of this century. Read below to identify some of the vulnerabilities you have in protecting your identity.

Protecting your identity in Restaurants/supermarkets.

Unscrupulous servers and cashiers have been known carry pocket-sized card skimmers to collect your card information. Due to weak security protocols of some independent restaurants and retail estabilishments, hackers use their skills to break into a restaurant or supermarket’s computer network to access credit card info. The best way to avoid getting your credit card info stolen with these methods is to pay with cash.

Protectin you identity Online

Using your credit card online can be dangerous if you are using a website that isn’t secure. Unsecured sites make it easy for thieves to break into the server and access customer’s credit card numbers. To safeguard your credit card info online, make sure you use secure websites to make payments. Look for sites with verified secured connections and updated SSL certificates (i.e. the lock icon on the payment page). Also, be wary of sending information related to your credit card or personal data via email.

Protecting your identity at the ATM

You may think the ATM you are using is secure, but you might want to double-check. Thieves can put “skimmers” in ATMs that can read and capture the information on the magnetic strip on your card. They can also put hidden cameras on ATMs so they can see your pin number. Then, they can make fake cards and gain access to your accounts. To avoid getting your credit (or debit) card info stolen at an ATM, steer clear of ATMs that look suspicious or look like they may have been tampered with.

Protecting you identity in the Mail

Credit card thieves are known to rummage though your mail and garbage to get your credit card info. If you think putting your mail out the night before is an efficient method of getting your bills paid think again. Thieves can steal your outgoing mail before the mailman even stops at the mailbox. For this reason, you might consider going paperless to pay your bills online. Or, if you are uncomfortable paying your bills online, hand carry your bills to your mailman directly.

Protecting your identity while Traveling

When traveling, always protect your wallet or purse. Theives can quickly snatching your wallet on a crowded street, or break into your hotel room. Although inconvenient it is advisable to utilize the hotel safe to store your valuables. The best way to protect yourself is to carry prepaid travel credit cards and traveler’s checks to limit your liability.

Protecting your identity using Credit card swipe machines.

Although improbable, is possible for thieves to switch out store-owned card terminals with a reader of their own. The can then steal your credit card information. Some store owners them selves can also enter in inflated amounts, so be sure to always check your receipts before leaving the establishment. For this reason try to stick to reputable establishments while away on vacation. The best way to make sure this type of theft doesn’t happen to you is to opt to pay with cash.