The holiday season is a time of joy, celebration, and togetherness. Unfortunately, it’s also a time when identity thieves are working tirelessly to exploit the festive spirit. According to a recent consumer survey, nearly half of respondents expressed feeling more vulnerable to fraudsters and identity thieves during the holidays. While this might be a concerning statistic, it’s essential to remember that you can take proactive steps to protect yourself and your loved ones from falling victim to identity theft, not only during the holiday season but throughout the year.

Staying Vigilant Year-Round

Identity thieves don’t observe a holiday break; they are active 365 days a year. Therefore, it’s crucial to remain vigilant and adopt a proactive approach to safeguarding your personal information. Simple yet effective measures, such as choosing where you shop carefully and being mindful of the information you share online, can significantly enhance your identity security.

Here are 10 tips to help you avoid falling victim to fraudsters and identity thieves:

1. Shop with Trusted Online Retailers: Stick to well-known, reputable online retailers. Look for websites that use “https://” in the address bar, indicating additional security measures. Additionally, check independent reviews and ratings to ensure the legitimacy of the website.
2. Beware of Suspicious Links: Be cautious when clicking on links in emails or text messages, especially if an offer seems too good to be true. Scammers often use enticing offers to lure victims into their traps.
3. Use Strong, Unique Passwords: Create strong passwords for your online accounts and change them regularly. Avoid using easily guessable information like birthdays or common words.
4. Enable Two-Factor Authentication: Whenever possible, activate two-factor authentication (2FA) for your online accounts. This provides an extra layer of security by requiring a verification code in addition to your password.
5. Protect Your Social Media: Be mindful of what you share on social media platforms. Posting vacation plans or personal information can alert thieves to when your home is empty or provide clues to your passwords.
6. Avoid Public Wi-Fi for Online Shopping: Public Wi-Fi networks can be insecure, making it easier for hackers to intercept your data. Consider using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to protect your personal information while browsing on public networks.
7. Keep Antivirus Software Updated: Ensure that your antivirus software is up-to-date. Regular updates help protect your computer from malware and other security threats.
8. Regularly Review Credit Reports: Regularly check your credit reports for any suspicious activity. Unfamiliar phone numbers or accounts you didn’t open can be signs of identity theft. Review your bank and credit card statements for any unauthorized transactions.
9. Shred Sensitive Documents: Before disposing of any documents containing personal information, such as bank statements or bills, use a shredder to ensure they can’t be easily accessed by identity thieves.
10. Secure Personal Items: Be cautious about where you leave your credit cards and other personal belongings. If you lose your ID or credit cards, report the loss immediately and cancel any compromised cards. Consider placing a free fraud warning or identity alert on your credit reports to further protect yourself.

Equifax’s Assistance

If you have one of Equifax’s credit monitoring products, like Equifax Complete™ Premier or Equifax Complete™ Friends and Family, take advantage of the benefits they offer. These services can alert you to key changes on your Equifax credit report, helping you spot potential fraud faster. In the unfortunate event that you become a victim of identity theft, Equifax can also provide assistance in the recovery process.

In conclusion, while the holiday season is a time for celebration, it’s crucial to remain vigilant and take proactive steps to protect your identity from fraudsters and identity thieves. By following these tips and staying informed about the latest security practices, you can enjoy the holidays with peace of mind and ensure that your personal information remains safe year-round.