Last week, I listed seven ways to protect yourself and your employees against computer-driven identity theft. The computer is not the only tool of identity thieves. This week, I'll explain how you can protect yourself off-line, especially when engaging in transactions. We'll resume the count at number 8. [Editor's Note: Part 1 of this series is available in the SafetyXChange archives.]

8. Beware of Social Engineers

Identity thieves who gain victims' trust before stealing their personal and financial information are known as social engineers. These thieves typically pose as solicitors or salespeople and use psychological techniques to give themselves a veneer of legitimacy. For instance, they may claim to work for charitable donations. Typically, they solicit via phone; but also beware of the door-to-door solicitor. If a salesperson drops names and asks invasive questions, you may be dealing with a social engineer.

9. Pay with a Credit Card, Not a Check, Whenever Possible

Thieves can get the information they need to steal your identity from either a check or a credit card. But the consequences of the former can be worse. If identity thieves get into your checking account, they may be able to take your money and leave you without recourse. Credit card theft, on the other hand, is easier to rectify since most credit card issuers offer identity theft assistance and protection.

10. Don't Provide Your Social Security Number

Most transactions can be processed without a social security number. So, treat any request for your SSN as suspect. There may be exceptions. For instance, when you call your credit card company for information, the company might ask you for the final four digits of your SSN so it can verify that it's really you.

11. Don't Give Out Your Home Phone Number, If You Can Avoid It

Thieves and online stalkers can find out where you live and just about anything else about you from your home phone number. So try not to post it. If you can't avoid posting a phone number, such as in a classified ad (online or off), or if you date online, use a double-blind, untraceable 800-number. Companies such as PrivateTel (www.privatetelsolutions.com) and NetworkIP (www.networkip.net) provide secure 800-number services.

12. Track Your Own Identity Before Something Goes Awry

The Public Information Profile (PIP) traces the public "threads" that run through our lives. It compiles public information from a variety of sources into a complete and legally conforming personal profile, and is available for purchase. My website (www.idtheftsecurity.com) has a link to more information about the PIP.

Conclusion

We must accept responsibility for our own identities. The 12 tips in this series should help you take the control. Install the right software, don't forget to run it and pay attention to what you download. Nothing done from the top down - not government legislation or new industry policy - will be a cure-all for identity theft. But nothing thwarts the identity thief like someone who is cautious and well-informed.

MEMBER REPLY

Password Prudence

I enjoyed Part 1 of Robert Siciliano's article on identity theft. Number four on the list of precautions - password advice - is particularly helpful. A virtually unbreakable password combination would include symbols, capitals and number combinations. A good example that may be easier to remember would be to use your favorite color with your name. If my name is John and my color is yellow, my password could be: J*hn4ye\*w. The asterisk is used in place of 0 and the backslash in place of L, the number breaks it up, and the J is capitalized. Other helpful hints: A one can be used in place of L or i, a zero in place of O, an @ in place of A, $ in place of S, the symbol or a number can also be used to join words. It's a little slower to type, but can save the headache of identity theft down the road. It's the combination that keeps the hackers away!

Jean Seymour
Ergonomic/Safety Specialist

GO FIGURE

30.0

What does this number represent?

Answer: It's the magic Body Mass Index (BMI) number. Persons with a BMI of 30 or more are considered to be in the obese weight status range.

Many North Americans have resolved to lose weight this year. But before reasonable goals can be established, you must know your current status first.

To calculate your BMI:

Using pounds and inches:

Using kilograms and meters:

(Note: Different calculations are used for children, teens and pregnant women.)

What the numbers mean:

Story Tools:  Email This Post  Print This Post Top