Identity theft occurs when an individual obtains personal or financial information of another person for the purpose of assuming that person's name to make transactions or purchases.
Here are some protective measures you can follow to keep your identity secure.
Be careful when giving personal information
Protect your documents and mail
Guard your credit cards
Keep your personal information in a safe place in your home
Pay attention to your bills and accounts
Be smart about passwords and PINs
Safeguard your computer
Monitor your credit report
Verify your public records
Be careful when giving personal information
One rule of thumb is to never give your credit card number, Social Insurance Number (SIN), or other personal information over the phone, by mail, through e-mail, or on the Internet to anyone you do not know or are not familiar with. And never keep your Social Insurance card on you - be sure to keep it in a safe place.
Protect your documents and mail
Some thieves go through trash cans and recycling bins in search of personal information. With this in mind, make a point of tearing or shredding all confidential information before you recycle or throw it out. This information includes receipts, credit applications, insurance forms, bank statements, expired charge cards, and pre-approved credit offers. Additionally, try not to leave mail in your mailbox for an extended period of time. If you plan on going away, you can contact Canada Post or your local post office and request a Hold Mail service on your mail delivery.
Guard your credit cards
Avoid carrying a large number of credit cards in your wallet. And if you lose a card, be sure to contact the fraud division of the credit card company as soon as possible. If you apply for a new credit card and do not receive it in a reasonable period of time, contact the issuer immediately. Additionally, sign all your credit cards in permanent ink.
Keep your personal information in a safe place in your home
If you live with a roommate, employ outside help or are having service work done in your home, be sure to keep all of your personal financial information in a safe and secure place.
Pay attention to your bills and accounts
If you notice that your bills are not arriving on time or missing, contact the lender immediately. A missing bill is an indication that an identity thief may have taken over your credit card and changed your billing address.
Be smart about passwords and PINs
It is strongly advised that you memorize all passwords and other personal identification numbers, instead of carrying them on you. Do not use passwords that can be easily figured out, such as a series of consecutive numbers, your mother's maiden name, your birth date, or the last four digits of your SIN or phone number.
Safeguard your computer
There are several ways to safeguard your computer. For starters, it's highly recommended that you install virus protection software on your computer. As well, never provide any personal information in response to unsolicited e-mails. When purchasing online, ensure that the website is secure before you send information. (Look for a padlock icon in the lower corner of your screen.)
Monitor your credit report
By checking your credit report regularly, you are able to catch mistakes and may detect fraud before it has an impact on your personal finances. When you review your credit report, ensure that only the transactions you've authorized appear.
Smart Tip
Protect your credit report and your financial well-being with CIBC CreditSmart credit report alerts. Equifax Canada will inform you of key changes to your personal Equifax credit report so you can respond immediately to suspicious activity. You can choose to be contacted by phone, e-mail or through a message posted on your Online Banking Message Centre.
Verify Your Public Records
You should regularly check your public records such as, court or motor vehicle department. If someone has stolen your identity and has gotten into serious trouble using your personal information, your permanent records will be negatively affected. If this happens to you, contact the appropriate authorities as soon as possible to avoid any further implication.
Smart Tip
If you suspect you've become the victim of identity theft, CIBC CreditSmart identity theft assistance provides you with the guidance and information you need to act on suspected identity theft. One simple call to CIBC Credit Card Services (1-800-465-4653) will ensure you receive guidance and clear instructions about how to proceed with your inquiry.
