How to prevent Identity Theft (and what it is)

Identity theft is a latent risk that can affect anyone and when it occurs it is a problem that affects assets and even credit history. Virtually all banking transactions operate in a safe, efficient and low-cost technological environment. However, banking is not immune to the risks of new technologies, and one of them is precisely identity theft.

In fact, identity theft is a serious crime and this occurs when someone uses your information without your permission. Identity thieves could use:

▸Social Security number

▸Your health insurance account numbers

▸Your name and address

▸Your bank account or credit card numbers

Although mechanisms exist to reduce the risk of fraud, many traditional financial institutions are still taking steps back to reduce this crime. However, users can take concrete actions to reduce this risk.

Tips we can take to avoid identity theft

▸Don’t download or open suspicious links

They are common supposed notifications of the SAT or of the banks with links or attached files. An easy way to identify if the links in the emails you receive are reliable is by simply hovering over the button or link and you will be able to see the domain where it redirects you to in the bottom bar of your browser. If the domain is different from the SAT or your bank; or it is hidden behind a short URL like bit.ly or goo.gl it is best to delete that email.

▸Check who you give your data to

Don’t share your personal information with just anyone. Sharing your data anywhere you show up can be dangerous. When sharing your information on Internet sites, verify that they have security certificates, you can see it in the upper left corner of your browser.

▸Don’t have one password for all your digital services

The ideal is to have a secure password, greater than 25 characters in each online service where you register. Perhaps you are one of those who use the same Facebook password for your email and your bank account. If that is the case, it is advisable to change it.

▸Keep your personal documents safe at home and when you travel

All personal documents, with personal information or electronic files, as well as the PIN, password and dynamic keys must be kept in a safe place either inside or outside the home, to prevent strangers from having access to them.

▸Think before posting or sharing personal information

The use of sources of easy access and rich in information, for example social networks, in which information about a person can be obtained, such as: name, age, date of birth, photograph, information of family, school, work type Among other things, it makes identity theft easier for criminals.

▸Be on the lookout for any unusual bank transactions

Constantly review your account statements in order to make sure that the charges actually correspond to those you have made. If you detect an error, make the corresponding clarification as soon as possible.

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