Today we have two random identity theft protection tips for you on pickpocketing and smishing, yes smishing.
1. Smishing
People are always coming up with clever names to give to types of identity theft. First there was phishing, then there was vishing and now there is the newest incarnation: smishing. Smishing stands for phishing via SMS, or short message service, which you probably refer to as text messaging. With this scam, potential victims get a text message that instructs them to dial a toll-free phone number to solve a mishap with their financial institution. A lot of people will follow this instruction out of legitimate worry, and some will do the same simply out of curiosity.
When they do dial the number, they will find that it’s answered by a voice response system that instructs them to type in account information. After they type in the information, the thief’s system records the keystrokes. In that way, he or she is able to steal the person’s identity.
People tend to fall for this scam because they believe that if someone knows their cell phone number they must have some sort of a relationship with them. According to Brian Krebs, writer of “Krebs on Security, “If someone has my cell number, I figure it’s someone I know.”
The true way that thieves get these phone numbers is simply by dialing random digits until they happen to come upon some that work. Because of this, it is difficult – if not impossible – to prevent getting these messages altogether. Instead, the savvy consumer should focus on what to do when they do get the SMS.
When you get a text message that is supposedly from your financial institution, verify that it actually is from the number for the institution. Instead of calling the number, look up the legitimate contact information online or in the phone book. It is highly unlikely that your bank would contact you by text instead of giving you a call or sending you a letter. When in doubt, always verify. It’s always better to be safe than sorry.
2. Avoiding pickpockets
It’s important to remember that identity theft doesn’t have to be sophisticated. What thief would take the time to run some confusing algorithm on the computer, when all he has to do is grab a pocketbook someone left behind on the train? Believe it or not, a good majority of identity theft occurs just due to the old fashioned art of pick pocketing. Time to learn how to protect yourself.
Keep It Close
Even if a thief doesn’t take your bag, he can take things out of it if you’re not paying attention. Keep it zipped or buttoned shut and hold it close to your body, especially in crowded areas. If you have your wallet in a backpack, keep it in an inside pocket. Even better, keep your wallet in one of the front pockets of your pants.
Pay Attention
One of the key elements that pickpockets rely on is distraction. They may try to divert your attention by asking for or giving directions, spilling something or speaking very loudly. It’s okay to pay attention to strangers, especially if they legitimately need help, but keep an eye and a hand on your bag at the same time.
Be Careful What You Carry
Got a passport or a Social Security card? That’s great. Leave them at home. There’s no reason to keep them in your wallet. All it does is gives thieves the opportunity to steal extra personal information. You do not want them to have either of these documents. It’s much worse than them having your credit card number.
Shop Smart
It’s not about saving money, it’s about saving your identity. When you go for a big shopping trip and your arms are laden with bags, don’t let your purse hang on your arm out of site. Instead, ask the store to hold some of your bags at the counter, and then take as many trips as you need. Or, put your purse inside one of the shopping bags so it’s not such an easy target.
Give it Away
If someone physically threatens you and demands your purse or wallet, give it up. Although they will get your credit cards and license, it’s not worth a confrontation that could cost you your life. Make photocopies or scans of the front and back of everything in your wallet so that you can easily cancel and replace them if you’re ever in that situation.