Don't Get Fooled » Identity Theft is a Growing Threat

Why you should care:

Because, sadly, not everyone is as nice as you are, and cyber criminals get sneakier every day.

What you can do:

• DON'T open suspicious email or unsolicited attachments
  Even if it seems to come from someone you know and you weren't expecting it, check first with the sender to see if it's legitimate.

• DON'T trade important information about yourself for freebies
  This includes your Social Security Number, mother's maiden name, or your hometown. The free widget, gizmo or whatever else you may be offered just isn't worth what could be the biggest headache of your life.

• Learn more about Identity Theft
  You can Deter, Detect & Defend against identity theft. This comprehensive site includes a preventive checklist, warning signs of trouble, and what to do if your identity has been compromised. The Federal Trade Commission also provides whole host of materials, including a video about victims and their stories. Got it? Then try ID Theft: FaceOff.
  

• Ratchet up your olfactory system
  If is smells phishy, it probably is. Can you spot the phony? Here's some help: read our Phishing Primer; check for phishing alerts on the CIS blog; test your Phishing IQ; play Phishing Scams: Avoid the Bait; learn about the work of the Anti-Phishing Working Group.

Read more about Phishing and Identity Theft.

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