8 Tips to Protect Against Identity Theft

Identity theft is on the increase (check out the infograph below), here are some everyday tips to protect yourself:

  1. Don't carry your Social Insurance Card or documents that show your SIN.
  2. Don't give a business your SIN just because someone asks.  Give it only when required.
  3. Check your credit report every 12 months.
  4. Keep personal information in your home under lock and key.
  5. Protect your personal computers by using firewalls and anti-virus software, updating security patches and changing passwords for Internet accounts.
  6. Don't give out personal information over the phone, or online unless you have initiated the contact or you are sure you know who you are dealing with.