Cyber security experts have been telling us for several years now that it’s not a matter of if, it’s a matter of when identity theft will impact our lives. We can’t predict it and we can’t prevent it. What we can do is watch for it and be prepared for when it does happen. Although it’s open season on us all year round, it’s more intense around the holidays. We’re distracted with shopping, decorating, preparing for guests, preparing to travel, parties, and more shopping. Identity Thieves are thrilled by this because it makes it easier for them to slip in and out without notice. It may be January and in some cases February before we realize something has happened and by then, the thieves are long gone.
Fortunately, if it’s a fraudulent charge, our financial institution will help us out, but if it’s not that, then we need to find a way to deal with it. Here are a couple of things you can do to keep tabs on your money and your identity this holiday season.