You found a cute pair of shoes online that you have to have. You don’t recognize the seller but you want to treat yourself. Besides, what’s the worst that could happen?

You could never receive your shoes for one. For two, if you don’t watch where you shop, you may get your credit card information stolen. You could even become a victim of online identity theft.

Scamming doesn’t always come in the form of sketchy emails and popup sites. Hackers can be crafty so you have to be careful. Check out this guide to learn all the ins and outs of identity theft protection.

1. Equip Your Devices with Antivirus Software

The first step of identity theft prevention is downloading antivirus software. Without it, you’re leaving your devices vulnerable to malicious programs that can steal your passwords.

Many are under the misconception that Macs can’t get viruses but that’s not true. They need to be protected by antivirus as well. Be sure that you always keep your computer software updated.

Developers are always finding holes that hackers can slip in through. When they spot one, they create a solution for it and release it in an update. If you don’t download the update, you don’t plug the holes.

2. Use Quality Passwords

If you use the same password for every device and account you own, hackers love you. All they need is one password to access all of your information.

Create a different password for everything. If you have a hard time memorizing them, write them down on a piece of paper and keep it in a secure location.

Keep in mind when you’re creating passwords that they should all be at least 10 characters long. Use a mixture of uppercase and lowercase letters and don’t use your name or your birthday.

3. Keep an Eye on Your Credit and Use Fraud Alerts

If your credit score takes a sudden nosedive, chances are someone opened something up in your name. If you notice anything fishy with your account, take the steps necessary to investigate.

You can also sign up with sites like socialprotect.uk to receive fraud alerts. As soon as something strange happens regarding your credit score, they’ll notify you.

4. Watch Where You Shop

Always do research on a site to make sure they’re legit before you shop from them. Look at reviews from other customers or check their reputation with the Better Business Bureau.

Look in the upper corner of the URL bar for a closed lock. If it’s there, then your connection is secure and you’re safe to put in your financial information.

Protect Yourself from Online Identity Theft

Hackers can be crafty. If don’t take measures to protect yourself from online identity theft, it can be easy to fall victim to it.

Always create strong passwords, make sure the websites you go to are legit, keep fraud alerts on, and use antivirus software. Do this and we promise your online identity will stay safe.

Are you looking for more ways to protect yourself while you’re browsing the web? Check out our blog daily for all the latest tips and tricks.