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ProtectionPower.ca gives Canadians the gift of security: tips everyone can use to stay safe this season

BURLINGTON, Ont, Dec. 23, 2011 –– Unfortunately, 'tis the season for the year's highest rates of identity theft and credit fraud. Criminals are quick to take advantage of distracted shoppers, crowds, increased travel, and the general busyness of this time of year.

In the spirit of the season, ProtectionPower.ca offers a list of 10 easy tips for avoiding holiday identity theft. ProtectionPower.ca offers a suite of identity theft protection services, including proactive identity monitoring and educational resources.

"With a few simple preventative actions, Canadians can avoid most cases of identity theft,” says Sylvain Patry, Senior Vice-President of ProtectionPower.ca and an expert in protecting against identity theft. “We encourage all Canadians to share these tips and enjoy a safe and secure holiday season."

10 tips to keep your identity safe this holiday season:

1. Always cover your hand as you type your PIN. Don't feel self-conscious about it – be safe.
2. Regularly check in on your bank and credit card accounts online. Watch for any unusual charges.
3. Password protect your phone. Your laptop, too. That way, if you lose it or it's stolen, your data will be a bit safer.
4. Beware of charity scams. If you want to make a donation, call or contact the organization yourself. Never send bank or credit card information by email or give it over the phone.
5. Think carefully before downloading holiday e-cards. Treat all email attachments with suspicion.
6. Do not click on pop-ups or follow links promoting special holiday offers or Boxing Day sales. These, too, may contain viruses. Better to type in a website's address on your own to check out the deal.
7. Ladies: if you can, leave the purse at home. Better to carry just what you need in a zipper pocket.
8. Do not carry identification with you that you don't need. Leave the SIN card and passport at home unless required.
9. We know you're trying to be efficient, but … don't shop or type in passwords when you're using public or shared wi-fi. This includes airport public Internet.
10. Leave a copy of all your card and identification numbers at home in a safe place. If you do lose your wallet, laptop, or phone, report the loss/theft immediately. Change all your passwords and cancel your cards.

For more tools and resources 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 features and experience to help you stay in control of your financial life.