How can I protect myself from identity theft?

Identity theft is a serious crime that can cause significant financial losses and damage to your credit rating. In Wisconsin, it is illegal to obtain someone’s personal information without their permission. Fortunately, there are many steps you can take to protect yourself from identity theft. First, always keep your personal information secure. This includes your Social Security number, bank accounts, credit card numbers and passwords. Do not share your personal information with anyone, and guard it carefully. Second, monitor your financial accounts regularly. Look for unfamiliar or suspicious transactions and any attempts to access your accounts without your permission. Contact your financial institution right away if you see anything unusual. Third, shred documents containing your personal details before discarding them. This includes bank statements, bills and credit applications. Fourth, be careful when using public Wi-Fi networks. Avoid accessing sensitive accounts such as your bank account when connecting to public networks. Finally, use strong passwords for your accounts online. Make sure they are long, complicated and unique for each account. By following these tips, you can help protect yourself from identity theft. If you think you have been a victim of identity theft, contact the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions immediately.

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How can I protect myself from identity theft?

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