Locking up your social security number may provide you with peace of mind.

Safeguarding your personal information is more important today than ever before. Credit card security breaches, hacking of your personal computer, and apps that you use to make personal transactions are all examples of how easily your information could be stolen. Locking your social security number may not only provide you with peace of mind, it could actually deter thieves from retrieving this incredibly sensitive information. Here’s what you need to know before you lock your social security number.

What you need to know

Before you lock up your information, use these practices to automatically reduce the chances of your information being reached.

• Use strong passwords that only you know the combination to on financial accounts or apps that you use to store your information. The more variety of characters you use, the harder it is going to be for hackers to encrypt your passcodes.
• Shred and rip paperwork with your sensitive information. Don’t just crumple it. Try to use separate bins and bags as well to keep dumpster divers from easily accessing your information.
• Use a secured Wi-Fi network when logging into your bank accounts. Using public Wi-Fi networks like the ones you find in Starbucks or a library are notoriously easy for hackers to get into and steal your information if you log in.
• Installing anti-virus software will stop viruses from coming into your computer and snatching your secured information that you thought was secure.

Protecting your identity is not something that should be taken lightly. As Dwight K. Schrute once reminded us, “Identity theft is not a joke! Millions of families suffer every year!” Choose the one that’s right for you! For all of your home buying needs throughout the Solana Beach, California area, contact the professionals at Ranch & Coast Mortgage Group Inc.