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ProtectionPower.ca offers timely tips to keep your identity, your data, and your money safe

BURLINGTON, ONT, Jan. 3, 2012 - There is no better time than the new year to adopt a few new habits that can make a big difference.

ProtectionPower.ca, which offers identity theft protection resources and services, including proactive identity monitoring, has published a list of five easy resolutions every Canadian can make to help ensure a fraud-free 2012.

“There were unprecedented levels of personal data breach and identity theft in 2011,” says Sylvain Patry, Senior Vice-President of ProtectionPower.ca and an expert in protecting against identity theft. “We want to let Canadians know that they can take control and protect themselves with some simple steps.”

5 Easy Resolutions for a Fraud and Identity Theft Free 2012

1. Strengthen your passwords. Use a combination of letters, numbers, and symbols that are easy for you to remember. It's especially important to have a secure email password: if thieves have your email password, they can access everything. All they have to do is visit various websites, and request a new password be emailed to your inbox.
2. Buy a shredder and use it. As you gather your paperwork to file taxes this year, take the opportunity to clear out all your old paper and bills. Shred everything you don't need – use a cross-cut shredder for the best security – and securely store the paper you do. From this point on, make a point of shredding regularly. The best idea? Put your shredder by your desk or somewhere else handy. Shred the mail you don't need to save (anything with any personal details on it) immediately.
3. Purge your wallet. Start the new year fresh! Remove all unnecessary cards. Your SIN card, for example, should not be in your wallet. Also, make time to cancel any store credit cards you don't use.
4. Learn to make your mobile phone secure. More than half of users do not password protect their mobile phones – do not be one of them. Take advantage of, the security features of your specific phone. Disable Bluetooth when you're not using it. Never download apps unless they are from a reputable source. Consider not using your phone for banking – do it at home, with your secure Internet connection.
5. Always check your statements. Keeping a close eye on your banking and credit card bills and utility statements is the very best way to spot early signs of identity theft or credit fraud. Check in regularly online. Remember: the pain of these crimes becomes worse the longer they go undetected.

For more tips and tools to help you protect yourself from identity theft, visit ProtectionPower.ca.

About ProtectionPower.ca

Protection Power is a leading Canadian provider of advanced identity protection services and educational resources. Founded by a team of security experts with a background in credit/financial services and technology, Protection Power provides the features and experience you need to stay in control of your financial life.