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Preventing I.D. Theft In Today's Technical World

By
Real Estate Agent with Bozeman Montana Real Estate .net

 Five quick tips:

  • No Freebies: Do Not Grab Free Wi-Fi

I know it is tempting to grasp onto freebees, but when it comes to online keep your online access points safe and try to only use password protected routers. Having auto connection options on a phone/laptop/pad is great for convenience but not so much when it comes to security. Auto connections have security risks AND can be prosecutable in some areas as a theft of bandwidth.

  • Be Careful and Original With Passwords

In order to keep track of passwords, there are high levels of encrypted aps you can get, but most professionals recommend good old fashion paper and pen.  Change passwords often, make them creative, and a little confusing.

  • Waving Cards

Another modern handy tool is the ability to ‘wave’ a card and have the magnetic strip on it run as if you were swiping it. This RFID technology can be accessible by its intended user or by anyone who has access to a machine that reads such signals. RFID technology is also found within many passports today so be wary when you are waving your protected information about.

  • Phones Need Protection Too

Anti-virus is a must on any computer but many phones to not have the same standard of protection. Look into what your provider recommends for your phone, but get it protected just as you would a laptop/desktop/ect.

  • Check Your Credit Health

AnnualCreditReport.com. A free annual check-up for your money. Just like you do your health, surface indications are not always inclusive of what is going on deeper. Use a doctor for physical health and use a credit report for credit health.

Edward & Celia Maddox
The Celtic Connection Realty - Queen Creek, AZ
EXPERIENCE & INTEGRITY - WE TAKE THE HIGH ROAD

Good tip about phones.  They now carry a lot of information.  Never know where the thief's lurk.

Oct 08, 2012 02:25 AM
Mel Ahrens, MBA, Kelly Right Real Estate
Kelly Right Real Estate - Hood River, OR
Customized Choices for your Real Estate Needs

Very good tips. It's so ironic how the technology that makes our lives so much easier also puts them in more jeopardy.

Gretchen

Oct 08, 2012 03:05 AM
Broker Patty Da Silva Da Silva
Green Realty Properties® - 954-667-7253 - Cooper City, FL
Top Listing Broker

Great tips for a huge issue. Thanks for sharing.

Oct 08, 2012 07:14 AM
Wayne Johnson
Coldwell Banker D'Ann Harper REALTORS® - San Antonio, TX
San Antonio REALTOR, San Antonio Homes For Sale

It's amazing the amount of sensitive information is transmitted to and from phones and tablets. Get sloppy and someone can grab the info before you know it.

Oct 08, 2012 11:36 AM
Diane Daley
Caron's Gateway Real Estate - Northumberland, NH

Great info, I did not know that phone's need anti virus, I guess it makes sense. Thanks for the education

Oct 10, 2012 11:50 PM