Benefits Spotlight: ProtectMyID

In today's digital age, protecting your identity has never been more critical. With cyber threats on the rise and in the news almost daily, it's critically important to take proactive measures to safeguard your personal information. 

Basic Tips to Help Prevent Online Identity Theft

When shopping online or managing your digital footprint, consider these practical tips to help protect your identity:

1. Use Secure Connections: Always ensure that the website you're visiting is secure. Look for "https" in the URL and a lock icon in the address bar. This indicates that the site uses encryption to protect your data.
2. Create Strong Passwords: Utilize complex passwords that combine letters, numbers, and symbols. Avoid using easily guessable information like birthdays or common words. A password manager can help you generate and store strong passwords.
3. Credit Card Safety: Designate one credit card for all your online purchases. This makes it easier to monitor transactions and spot any fraudulent activity. Some banks offer virtual credit cards, which can provide an additional layer of security.
4. Regularly Monitor Accounts: Keep an eye on your financial accounts and credit reports for any unusual activity. Early detection of suspicious transactions can prevent more significant issues down the line.
5. Avoid Storing Personal Information: Refrain from saving credit card details and other sensitive information on websites. While it might be convenient, it increases the risk if the site is ever compromised.

What is Identity Theft?

Identity theft is a serious crime involving the unauthorized use of someone else's personal information for financial gain. Commonly stolen data includes social security numbers, credit card details, bank account numbers, and other sensitive information. Once thieves obtain this data, they can engage in various types of fraud, such as:

• Financial Fraud: Thieves may open new credit accounts, take out loans, or make unauthorized purchases under the victim's name.
• Medical Identity Theft: Criminals might use stolen identities to access medical services or obtain prescription drugs.
• Tax Fraud: Fraudsters often file fraudulent tax returns to claim illegal refunds.
• Criminal Identity Theft: Offenders provide someone else's information to law enforcement when apprehended.
• Employment Identity Theft: Scammers use another person's identity to secure employment.

The consequences of identity theft can be severe, including significant financial loss, damage to credit ratings, and a lengthy process of resolving and recovering from the fraud.

What are Warning Signs of Identity Theft?

Recognizing the warning signs of identity theft is crucial to mitigating its impacts. Common indicators include:

1. Unexpected charges on your bank or credit card statements,
2. Unexplained withdrawals from your financial accounts, and
3. Receiving bills for services you didn't use.
4. Unfamiliar accounts or inquiries on your credit report,
5. Receiving calls from debt collectors about debts that aren't yours,
6. Being denied credit or loans despite having good credit,
7. Not receiving expected mail, which could indicate a change of address by the thief, and
8. Unusual notifications from the IRS, such as alerts about multiple tax returns filed in your name, also signal potential identity theft.

Staying vigilant and regularly monitoring your financial and personal information can help you catch these warning signs early and take swift action to protect yourself.

Additional Tips to Minimize Risk of Identity Theft

Minimizing the risk of identity theft involves adopting proactive and consistent practices to safeguard your personal information. Here is some additional information to consider to minimize your risk:

• Enable two-factor authentication wherever possible.
• Regularly update your passwords.
• Shred documents containing sensitive information before discarding them.
• Be cautious about sharing personal details on social media.
• Consider setting up fraud alerts or credit freezes with major credit bureaus.
• Always use secure internet connections and avoid public Wi-Fi when accessing financial information.
• Ensure your mobile phone and computer's antivirus software is up to date.

By implementing these measures, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of falling victim to identity theft and protect your financial well-being.

Enrolling in ProtectMyID Essential Coverage

AAA, trusted and known for its roadside assistance, also offers Members services aimed at helping to protect against identity theft.

AAA Members can enroll in ProtectMyID Essential to get FREE coverage to enhance their protection against identity theft. This service, provided by Experian, offers comprehensive monitoring and alerts. Here’s how you can get started:

1. Eligibility: All AAA Members are eligible for ProtectMyID Essential coverage. This service is included as a benefit of your membership.
2. Enrollment Process: To enroll, visit aaa.com/protectmyid. Follow the prompts to provide the necessary information. You’ll need to verify your identity and agree to the terms of service.
3. Features and Benefits: ProtectMyID Essential offers several key features, including monitoring of your Experian credit report, alerts for suspicious activity, lost wallet protection and up to $10,000 in identity theft insurance* (*AAA Premier Members only).

As a AAA Member, three coverage levels are available depending on your needs. ProtectMyID Essential is free with your AAA Membership; all you have to do is activate your benefit.  Comprehensive plans are also available at a 40% discount.  

Identity Protection is Critical

Protecting your identity is a critical aspect of managing your personal finances and online presence. AAA offers robust resources and services, such as ProtectMyID Essential coverage and Experian’s identity protection, to help members safeguard their information. By following best practices for online security and taking advantage of these services, you can significantly reduce the risk of identity theft.