5 Identity Theft Tips For College Students

Probably one of the last things on your mind is the treat of identity theft however, university and college campuses are becoming a popular target for identity thieves.

This makes sense because when you think about it, student campuses are busy places where lots of unsuspecting students or living together in small areas. This can make it a fertile ground for ID thieves and dishonest students who can take advantage of other students who are preoccupied with their new found independence.

However, you can reduce the risk of becoming a victim by following theses identity theft tips for college students:

1. Protect Your Computer

If you have a desk top computer or laptop in your dorm make sure you take the necessary precautions to prevent thieves from getting their hands on it. Do the basic such as setting up a password and memorize it. If you have a laptop make sure you do not leave it unattended in a public place such as the union or student bar even for a quick espresso.

It is always a good idea to prepared if your computer is stolen. Have it insured so that you won't be out of pocket. Do not store any personal data or important passwords for bank accounts as any decent hacker will be able to find it. It is far safer to store this information on a external disk storage file such as a flash disk and keep it separate from your laptop.

Update your computer with the latest spyware and malware security software if you use the internet. This will provide protection from dubious software being downloaded on to your computer and recording what sites you visit online and important information you type on your keyboard such as passwords or account numbers. 

2. Using Social Networking Sites

It is amazing how many people who use social networking sites are freely displaying personal information you wouldn't have considered showing a stranger just a few years ago. Information that you may not think important such as your birthday and phone number can, in the wrong hands , be enough to put your identity at risk. Also, remember that whatever you write on these sites will remain in the virtual world forever so, do not post anything that could come back to haunt you in the future.

3. Don't Leave Credit/Debit Cards In Your Dorm Room

It's easy to become careless with your credit and debits cards however, leaving them around in your dorm room where they can be seen is a great opportunity for someone to steal your identity. Your cards do not even have to be stolen. For example, a criminal just needs your card for a few seconds to swipe and scan it on a portable magnetic scanner. This device scans the personal data held on your cards magnetic strip. This data is then coded onto a counterfeit card.

If your credit card is stolen then report this to the dorm or college security immediately. Also, do not delay in reporting a stolen credit card to the bank or provider and cancel it. Although, you are not liable for fraudulent transactions the activities of an ID thief could have an adverse effect on your credit score if you leave it for too long.

While in college I used to have the habit of leaving my wallet on the table and forgetting it. To stop this from happening I started using a money belt under my T shirt instead of a wallet. It was thin and lightweight and it did not feel like I was wearing it. In this way I was able to carry around all my cards  and cash safely and conveniently.

4. Check Your Bank and Card Statements

Even with the best precautions you may still fall prey to ID theft. If this happens the best thing to do is find out as soon as possible if something is wrong so that you can limit the damage. By checking your statements regularly you can identify any suspicious transactions and take action by reporting it immediately to your card provider.

5. Pay Cash For Beers

Many students on a night out prefer the convenience of a bar tab. However, unless you know the people behind the bar there is a risk of getting your card skimmed. The safest way is always pay cash but, if this is not practical then make sure you or your buddies close the tab and get the card back before you leave.

Stealing your identity is becoming one of the fastest growing crimes in the country. College is great experience that your should enjoy and savor however, it all pays to remain vigilant against ID scams.  I hope you found these identity theft tips for college students useful.