Don’t Overlook These Home Security Risks When Traveling

At a time when security online is so important, it’s sometimes easy to overlook home security. There are still some “old school” risks you may be overlooking, and there’s always identity thieves hoping it stays that way. Below are some reminders to better secure your identity right where you live, especially if you’re leaving your home and taking a vacation during the busiest travel months.

Shred It and Forget It

Mail has a jackpot of our sensitive information. Whether it’s “junk mail” or from our financial institution or insurance company, tossing mail in the trash without shredding, ripping, or blacking out info is risky. Criminals look through your trash for your mail to build an identity profile.

Don’t Let Mail Build Up

Collect your mail as soon after delivery as possible. Consider not mailing bill payments directly from home because crooks can snap them up. If you’re away, have your mail forwarded, held at the post office, or have a trusted friend pick it up. Mail buildup is a sure sign no one’s home and it’s full of your personal info.

Lock It Up

Get a secure lock box for your sensitive family documents like social security cards, birth certificates, passports, and even passwords you’ve written down. Even though they’re in a “safe place,” they’re still open to any visitors, service providers, or even curious kids. So, lock it up and be as sure are you can be that it’s secure.

Don’t Give Your Info Away

Anyone at your door asking for your info is a risk. Whether a potential service provider or salesperson, keep a tight lid on your personal data. Even if answering a few basic questions seems harmless, identity thieves will always ask for more, so don’t give it to them.

Update Home Security Systems and Secure WiFi

Home security cameras inside and out are helpful but they’re also hackable, so always keep the software updated. Keeping home WiFi secure means changing the default setting to a strong password. Change the network name to something that’s not personal or connected to you in any way. And if you can, put your internet-connected devices like cameras and appliances on a separate network from the one you connect your computer to.

In this information age, all types of security need our consideration, including where we live. Remember, a secure home starts at home—so don’t overlook it.