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Whether you are shopping in your neighborhood or from the comfort of your home, be sure to keep your information protected. Identity theft and fraudulent transactions can affect your credit rating and finances.

You have lots to do this holiday season. Let’s not make solving an identity theft problem one of them! Follow these tips to help you stay protected:

• Don’t respond to those that want to verify your password, bank account number, or credit card number unless you initiated the contact. Scammers are phishing for your personal information. Use a password manager to protect your online documents.
• Shop with only one credit card. It’s easier to cancel just one card than several if necessary. Also, when traveling, use credit cards rather than debit cards. Federal law protects you if you need to dispute charges, but it does not apply to debit cards, checks, cash, money orders, or other forms of payment. Immediately call the credit card company if you suspect it has been lost or stolen.
• Protect your PIN. Never write the PIN on a credit card. Watch for shoulder surfers who try to watch as you type in your PIN.
• Shop with a buddy. There is security in numbers. Make sure you have each other’s mobile numbers and agree on a place to meet if you get separated.
• Park wisely. Try to park close to the store where others might see you. Park near a light post which makes it easier for others to see you. If you can’t park closely, ask an employee or security guard to walk you to your car.
• Use a secure, encrypted online cloud storage product to protect your documents where only you can access your files.
• Secure your passwords. Don’t ever share your passwords with anyone. You can either use a different password for each of your accounts and change them frequently; OR for the highest security, use a password manager like RoboForm.
• Only shop on secure websites. Make sure the URL starts with https:// and includes a closed padlock icon. 
• Use an online security product like Heimdal Security that blocks malware and viruses even before they reach your computer.
• Keep a record of your purchase. Save any information the seller gives you, such as order confirmation number, product description, delivery date, cancellation policy, privacy policy and warranties. Compare receipts with account statements and watch for unauthorized transactions.
• Keep track of your order. If it’s late, you have the right to cancel and demand a refund.
• Shred all documents with personal information before placing in the garbage. This even includes credit card offers you get in the mail.

Businesses are also at risk of having information stolen. Cyber-crime is now one of the greatest threats facing our country. Businesses should integrate security tools and analytics to enhance protection. It is absolutely vital to maintain loyal customers and business relationships.

• Use a virtual private network (VPN). This will secure information sent via public networks. PureVPN encrypts and secures your entire internet and Wi-Fi connection.
• Protect your files in the cloud. pCloud Crypto protects your files on any device.
• Iolo System Shield™ protects against viruses and two million different threats.
• See my previous post How to protect your PC and your data.

Another resource you may find helpful:

• Identity Theft: What Everyone Ought to Know About Identity Theft Protection by Howard Devos – Learn identity theft solutions you can use to stop the thieves in their tracks.
• Cyber Security for Beginners (course) – 5-week self-paced email course.