Understand the signs of a data compromise.
Not being aware of the signs is the first mistake most individuals and businesses make. Some tell-tale signs include unfamiliar or unauthorized credit charges, missing bills or bills for goods, services or utilities never received, and suspicious activity on one’s bank or credit card statements.
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Keep home operating systems current with the latest security patches.
While appropriate defense systems vary greatly based on the system, a simple preventative measure includes turning on the automatic update feature in many of your security programs.
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Double-check the security of your home computer network.
Protect your computer network by using strong passwords (and changing them often, which many don’t do frequently).
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File online from your home or a secure network.
Don’t file your return electronically from a public Wi-Fi network, where hackers could steal your information.
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Closely monitor financial documents.
Criminals look for W-2s, tax…
