Tips on keeping your identity safe and secure

There are many benefits to the world’s ever-increasing advances in technology. However, there are also some disadvantages. Identity theft has become an increasingly popular crime in Canada. No one wants this to happen to them. Not only can it be a stressful and confusing situation, but it can also be time-consuming to return everything back to normal. Here are some tips to help you prevent you and your loved ones from identity theft:

• ​Never provide personal information over the telephone unless you initiate the call.
• ​Void mail or telephone solicitations, disguised as promotions or surveys, offering instant prizes or awards designed for the purpose of obtaining your personal details.
• Promptly remove mail from your mailbox after delivery.
• Avoid keeping a written record of your bank account, PIN number(s), social insurance number, and computer password(s), and never keep that information in your wallet or handbag.
• Sign all credit cards when you receive them.
• Cancel credit cards you don’t use and keep a list of the ones you use regularly.
• Shred or otherwise destroy pre-approved credit card applications, credit card receipts, bills, and related information when you no longer need it.

When you know and follow these tips, you can be rest assured that you—and your identity—are being kept safe.

If you have home insurance through Johnson Insurance, you can speak with one of our customer service representatives to see if identity theft coverage is included in your policy.