An introduction to online identity theft• If you’re not thinking about what information you make available and

to whom you provide it, you’re putting yourself at risk . All an identity thief needs is a small amount of information about you .• A Social Security number alone is sufficient to steal someone’s

identity.

Did you know?

Why the internet makes theft easier

• Lack of technological knowledge . People who don’t know how to protect their privacy online are much more likely to fall victim to identity theft . • The Internet can feel private since you use it at

home and in your office. Some users forget that the information they share is publicly available.• It’s relatively easy to set up fake websites that look

like legitimate banks or credit card companies.

How identity theft can affect you & your child

• Did you know? Children are being targeted for identity theft 35 times more often than adults. • If thieves get ahold of your identity, they can:• Steal money and property• Open new accounts • Undermine your privacy• Gain access to your data

Strategies for protecting you and your child’s online identity • Establish family rules for internet use• Protect your social security number• Double check web addresses• Use good, strong password• Check your credit regularly• Check your credit card statements

Did you know? 10.7% of children are victims of identity theft

What to do if your identity is stolen

• Change all of your passwords, but do so on a different computer and on a different Internet connection than you normally use . • Review you and your child’s online privacy settings.• Add a password to your wireless connection, and ensure that it is a

challenging one to crack.• Contact the police if someone is using your child’s personal data to

blackmail, manipulate or threaten him. Did you know? The total financial loss attributed to identity theft in 2013 was $21 billion.

View our eBook “Protecting your Children from Online Identity Theft

” for more information.