Currently, there are over 300 million personal profiles on the social networking site, Facebook. Twitter, a relatively young micro-blogging service, boasts over 55 million visitors a month. LinkedIn, a professional networking site, announced reaching its 40-million-user mark in May of this year, and a recent magazine poll estimated that 20 million customers visit online dating sites at least once a month.
Staggering statistics, but what do they mean for your identity? A lot, actually.
Chances are, someone in your household, if not you, has a profile on at least one social media site. The business of social networking has exploded in the last five years, and has become a normal means of communicating and keeping in touch with friends, acquaintances and business associates. However, as consumers become more accustomed to sharing personal details through these sites, it is even more important to remain vigilant about protecting your identity. There are a variety of ways for unscrupulous individuals to take advantage of your trusting nature when it comes to full online disclosure.
While social networking can be a fun and valuable way to connect with friends and colleagues, it’s important to be aware of the risks and take the necessary precautionary measures. ID Watchdog can help you protect yourself from all angles.
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Another ‘form’ of identity theft that can lead to actual theft in a big way is actually geared to your GPS device in the car.
How many people add their home address to their GPS under favorites, actually labelled as “Home”!
Most people leave their GPS in the glovebox when they leave their car whilst shopping or out and about in town etc. What invitation is it to a car thief who breaks into your car, turns your GPS on and instantly knows A) your home address and B) You’re out and will remain so for a while – giving them plenty of time to go to your address and rob you blind!
Instead, if you want to add your address under favorites to your GPS for travelling back from places easily – just pick the centre of your home town to add – then drive the right way home as you get close!