The most important things you can do.
To avoid becoming a victim of identity theft:
- Limit the amount of personal information you publish online.
- Secure your computer and mobile phone with security software and strong passwords.
- Be cautious about requests for personal information over the internet, phone and in person.
- Learn how to avoid common scams by visiting SCAMwatch.gov.au.
- Investigate the arrival of new credit cards you didn’t ask for or bills for goods and services that aren’t yours.
- Be alert for any unusual bank transactions or missing mail.
- Order a free copy of your credit report from a credit reporting agency on a regular basis, particularly if your identity has been stolen.
- If you believe you have been the victim of identity theft, report it to your local police, ACORN or iDcare.
Source: ACORN.gov.au