Having your identity stolen can be one of the most gut-wrenching experiences for an individual, especially if the thief now has access to financial information, assets, and personal information regarding your life. Choosing the best ID fraud protection company is a way to protect your identity from theft, while also continuously having peace of mind that your information is safe, secure, and being monitored at all times. The top three ID fraud protection companies that deliver the most in terms of security include IdentityForce, LifeLock Ultimate Plus, and ID Watchdog. Selecting the company that is right for you is possible by understanding your needs and the services that are available and most suitable for your lifestyle. Below are the most commonly asked questions about identity theft and the top ID fraud protection companies, to help you choose the one that's right for you.
Fraud and identity theft can occur just about anywhere, especially if your credit or debit card is out in the open for others to see. Identity thieves can also access your information through discarded mail, phishing schemes online and by hacking into company databases. Additionally, logging into public WiFi hotspots can provide information to thieves and hackers. Always avoid utilizing a public WiFi when sensitive information will be transmitted over the internet.
Unfortunately, anywhere from 15-17 million identity theft and fraud cases are reported each year. Because of the rise in identity theft, it is essential to incorporate additional locks and security questions into your smartphone and any sensitive online accounts.
Many fraud and identity incidents occur in public spaces, surprisingly. If you have sensitive bank or credit card information out while shopping, a thief may snap a photo of your card or memorize information about you to commit their crimes. In addition, the rise in online shopping and internet use has led to a rise in identity fraud through hacking into accounts or personal computers in order to steal sensitive information.
Always keep your financial documents, credit cards, and other details out of sight of others, be sure to shred mail before discarding, and always remain vigilant and aware of your surroundings, even online. Do not allow those you do not know to access your computer or your WiFi connection.
Choosing the right service to protect your identity and to prevent potential fraud in your name greatly depends on your needs for security. Take some time to research all three of the top identity fraud companies to find the one that works best for your needs and budget.
ID fraud protection companies typically monitor your credit report for any changes, and some may also monitor your personal accounts for unusual activity, so you can quickly be alerted to any potential fraud. Many services also provide insurance and guarantee your information is secure and encrypted at all times.
Yes and no. Many popular services that are most well-known today do offer insurance and will give money back to you if they are unable to protect your identity. Some ID fraud protection services do not provide a guarantee, however, so be sure to read the fine print before signing up for any services.
If police officers or the FBI are able to track down a suspected criminal of identity theft and fraud, they will likely have charges pressed against them and spend time in jail. However, catching identity thieves, especially online, can be a long and difficult process, and some identity thieves are never caught.