As the economy worsens and things get tougher more and more people invariably turn to crime. Many of us do our banking, check credit card statements, and many other things online. The tech savvy criminals know this and take advantage; identify theft is becoming more and more common. We'll go over some common ways crooks can steal sensitive info and then go over some ways you can help avoid it.

There are several different ways a crook can steal your identity or obtain sensitive information. One way is to steal your mail right out of your postal mail box. While this is low tech, it is very effective as mail often contains credit card numbers, account numbers, social security numbers, etc.

Another way of obtaining confidential information is phishing. No, we're not talking about grabbing a rod, reel, and your tackle box; we're talking about crooks sending you phony emails (many have links to fake websites that look exactly like the real ones they mimic) which look legit asking for passwords, account numbers, and other personal information.

Malware is a big deal to many computer techs and it's for a good reason; malware is continually evolving becoming more sophisticated and difficult to remove and/or detect. Some malware will run silently in the background logging keys you press as you enter passwords, sign in to various online accounts, or fill out web forms. This information is then sent back to hackers or crooks that either sell the information or use it for their own malicious purposes.

Steps to Help Prevent Identity Theft

Consider switching to online statements if possible. This could save you money in postage and is more environmentally friendly. If you're going to be out of town for more than one or two days, ask someone you trust to collect your mail.

NEVER send passwords, accounts numbers, or other sensitive information via email or a web form. If you are going to buy something online, make sure the page where you check out and enter your card number starts with https:// rather than just plain old http:// notice the difference. Also, check to see if the website has a SSL certificate (such as one from VeriSign; there are others also). These can usually be found on the website's home page. NEVER respond to an email asking you for passwords, account numbers or other personal information. If in doubt, call the institution.

Keep your antivirus software up to date. As mentioned before, key loggers and other data stealing programs are designed to hide and run in the background unnoticed unlike other forms of Malware which are often more overt.

Consider changing your passwords for important security sensitive websites on a regular basis. Use strong passwords such as those that contain upper and lower case letters, numbers and special characters. If you are at home and are not concerned about anyone living with you obtaining the passwords you can write them down.

Software - Computer Security