Archives - Personal Information


Factory reset your phone before getting rid of it

Whether you’re trading it in, donating it or handing it off for any reason, you’ll want to wipe all the data from your phone before doing so. While the process for this varies by phone, you can easily find out how by searching your settings for something that says “Factory reset” or “Return to factory […]

If you’re entering sensitive information, cover the screen with your hand

You can never be totally sure if someone’s looking at your screen, so it’s a good idea to make this a habit. Another solution is using a privacy screen for your laptop if you often use your laptop in a crowded place, such as airplanes and airports. Privacy screens make it difficult for people to […]

Notify the authorities if you believe someone is using your personal information to commit fraud

While it’s important to do your part to practice safe surfing and stay on top of your credit activity, if a cybercriminal is successful in committing fraud in your name — such as by using your information to collect unemployment payments — there’s a chance you could end up liable. To help protect you from […]

Set up credit alerts

Someone who has some of your personal information can usually find more of it, and they might use it to open credit card accounts in your name. Protect yourself by setting up alerts on Experian, Equifax or TransUnion. It’s okay to set up alerts on just one of these, as the others will be automatically […]

Don’t use real photos of yourself if you don’t have to

Many sites allow you to upload “avatars” of yourself which are generally posted next to your username any time you make a post. You don’t have to use a real photo of yourself, however. Instead, use any other image that doesn’t reveal who you are.

Don’t enter your credit card information anywhere unless you plan to purchase something

Some sites or people online might say they need your credit card information for something like identity verification. Don’t respond to these requests. Be extremely careful whenever you give anyone or any website or app financial information that can be used to charge you.