BY LAURIE BAUER | Business Development Manager , TW Insurance Brokers

Canadians more than $ 1 million a day , according to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police . Techniques can range from the unsophisticated , such as dumpster diving and mail theft , to more elaborate schemes such as bank card skimming and cyberattacks . Despite that staggering statistic , it does not mean you have to sit around and wait to be targeted . By taking identity theft seriously and following recommended strategies for protecting your personal information , you can reduce your chances of becoming a victim of this costly crime .

Understanding Identity Theft Identity theft occurs when someone obtains another individual ’ s personal data or financial information and uses it fraudulently to obtain goods or services . This once-obscure crime is now a widespread problem for Canadians .

HERE ARE SOME STRATEGIES TO HELP YOU PROTECT YOURSELF :

1 . Always keep your credit card in sight . If your waiter or salesperson needs to walk away to process your card , go with them to make sure you are not a victim of credit card skimming . Credit card skimming is a common practice where a thief takes information from the magnetic strip on the back of your credit card and uses this information to make purchases at your expense .

2 . Never trust emails that ask for your personal or financial information — no matter how official they appear . Phishing is a frequent tactic used by identity thieves . They

60 | arta . net pretend to be your bank and prompt you to click a link to a fraudulent website and enter your information in a bogus online form . Phishing scams typically use a logo , design and URL that look close to your bank ’ s branding , but once you enter your information it goes directly to thieves .

3 . Protect your computer from malware . Hackers are constantly creating malicious software to infiltrate your computer and intercept passwords or credit card information you enter while online . Protect your computer by installing the latest anti-virus , anti-spyware , anti-adware programs and firewalls . Also , make it a practice to only purchase from trusted online retailers that have a secure ‘ https ’ site instead of an ‘ http .’

4 . Shred trash and junk mail with personal information printed on it . Identity thieves are not above going through your garbage to get access to personal information , including that of your friends and family . An identity thief could use a discarded address book to steal name , address and birthday information of those close to you .

5 . Streamline your wallet . Only carry items you plan to use . Keep your passport , birth certificate , social insurance card and other credit cards safely stored when you are not using them .

6 . Protect your PIN . Do not share your PIN with anyone and take care to shield the keypad whenever you enter it in public . Identity thieves use clever tactics to steal PINs including spy cameras .