>Beware new threats

Identity Theft Trends: Today's biggest scams

Protection Power is your best source for vital information on the latest security threats and trends. Protection Power members have access to top identity theft-fighting tools, as well as an extensive education centre chock full of valuable resources.

Top computer security experts are constantly looking ahead. Many have recently highlighted specific types of cyber scams and identity threats that are clearly on the rise. Here are some brief details about just a few of the most prevalent:

ID thieves target youth

Identity theft through social media and mobile devices can hit anyone – but particularly the younger sector of the population. Youth are also more likely to shop, bank, game and communicate almost exclusively online. As more criminals enter the identity theft game, they will be spreading their nets wider and wider.

Speak to the children and teens in your life about the dangers of sharing too much personal information. You may want to share our article on identity theft protection tips with them, or have those over the age of 18 (and with credit card accounts) sign on for a Protection Power account.

Expanded phishing

A phishing email (or phone call) appears to come from a legitimate company or institution. By pretending to be your bank, a charity or a reputable retail store, this email may trick you into revealing your banking, credit card, or other personal details. You must never reveal this type of information unless you are absolutely certain the source is real!

You may also notice an increase in scam or spam emails in the wake of a world tragedy or health concern. The H1N1 virus brought out many fraudulent offers of cheap vaccines; scammers took advantage of the public's generosity by collecting funds in the wake of the horrific earthquake in Haiti – funds which didn't do the victims an ounce of good.

Malicious software

Malicious software, or “malware,” is growing in variety and strength as fast as computer use is. The more we rely on computers for everyday tasks and communication, the more opportunities there are for criminal hackers to find a way in. Software now exists that can stealthily get into your computer, record everything you do, and transmit the information – even passwords and account numbers – to a remote server. Encrypting your wireless network and installing anti-malware software (and keeping it updated) has never been more important.

For more, please read our article on Defining the Computer Invaders.

As these computer breaches can also happen to computers at educational institutions, government departments, health institutions and banks, it is important to keep careful tabs on all your accounts and watch for any sort of unusual activity.

And more

Social media and mobile devices will become targets for more identity thieves and hackers over the coming months. Institutional security breaches – either through employee negligence or criminal intent – are also on the up. Sadly, there's never an end to the new ways creative fraudsters dream up to steal your data.

Read our latest news for the scoop on identity crimes and trends.

Proactive ID monitoring is an exciting new service and a powerful tool in ID theft protection. Using advanced computer intelligence, ID monitoring scans the Internet for the improper use of your identification and cards.

Your Protection Power membership includes access to SpotMyID, Canada's first consumer ID monitoring service.

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