Guest Author - Debbie Jacobsen

It is estimated that the number of reported cases of computer-based identity theft has grown over 200% within the past two years. Identity theft is when someone uses your personal information without your consent to commit fraud or other crimes. The most common things that online identity thieves steal are bank account numbers, credit card information, passwords and social security numbers.

Online identity theft is rising mainly due to the widespread use of keyloggers and phishing scams.

Keyloggers
A keylogger is a type of spyware that is designed to secretly record your keystrokes as you enter passwords and account numbers into online logon screens. This information is passed on to the “owner” of the spyware that was secretly installed on your computer. Keyloggers are instantly and secretly installed on your computer when you visit certain websites, install certain types of “free” software, and when you open an infected attachment. Keyloggers are not computer viruses, and anti-virus software cannot detect and destroy most keyloggers – you need anti-spyware software to protect yourself from keyloggers and other spyware.

Phishing Scams
The most common method of delivery for phishing scams is through email. Most phishing emails appear to be from a legitimate bank or company that you may (or may not) have an account with. Phishing scams always include a link to click on that takes you to a website where you are required to “log in”. What we don’t usually realize though, is that the website we are logging on to is actually a “copy” of the company’s official website. Entering logon information or account details onto one of these “fake” websites gives an identity thief all the information he needs to access your “real” account.

How to Protect Yourself from Identity Theft

Knowledge and awareness are your most important defenses when it comes to protecting yourself from online identity theft. By being aware of the methods identity thieves use, and being cautious about everything you do while online, you will keep yourself fairly safe. You can learn a lot about identity theft at the Federal Trade Commission's Identity Theft Site.

Always use an arsenal of computer security software, and make sure it is kept up to date at all times. The best thing to use is a computer security suite (also known as an internet security suite). A good security suite will have antivirus software to protect you from viruses, anti-spyware software to protect you from keyloggers and other spyware and a software firewall to keep intruders out and personal information in. An even better internet security suite will also include a spam blocker, which will help keep you safe from phishing scams as well as annoying spam. I use Bit Defender Internet Security Suite, and am very pleased with the effectiveness and ease of use of this product.

Another very important thing to do is to use strong passwords on all online accounts. As a rule of thumb, make sure passwords are at least eight characters in length and include a combination of upper and lower case letters as well as at least one number or special character. Make sure all online account passwords are different from your email password, and never store passwords where others can get to them.