On the ninth post of Christmas…..
Your personal information is the key to your identity. With identity crime being one of the most common and fastest growing crimes in Australia, it’s a timely reminder to take some simple steps to reduce the risks of having your personal information stolen or misused:
- Choose passwords that would be difficult for others to guess, and update them regularly. Don’t use the same password for every account.
- Put a lock on your mailbox and shred or destroy any documents containing personal information before disposing of them.
- Secure your computer and mobile phone with security software and strong passwords, and avoid using public computers for sensitive activities.
- With social networking sites, always use the most secure settings. Take extreme care if placing personal details such as date of birth, address, phone contacts or educational details on your profile, and never accept unsolicited ‘friend’ requests
- Be alert for any unusual bank transactions or missing mail.
If you think you are a victim of identity theft, it is important you act quickly to limit the fraudulent use of your identity.
- Notify your financial institutions
- Change your passwords
- Notify the relevant websites
- Request a credit report from a reputable credit reference bureau.
It is important to remember organisations such as banks and Government Departments will never send you an email or ring you asking for personal details or to log into your account because of a problem.
Stay “In Control” of your Personal Information
If you have information for police, contact Policelink by providing information using the online suspicious activity form 24hrs per day at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting.
Report crime information anonymously via Crime Stoppers. Call 1800 333 000 or report online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au.
