Information provided by the National Foundation for Credit Counseling (NFCC) during National Protect Your Identity Week has highlighted the serious risk of identity theft suffered by smartphone users. Because so many smartphones contain vital information about their users and have links to personal websites and bank accounts, I.D. thieves can access these phones to gain everything they need for their illegal activities, as reported by The Columbus Dispatch.
A study released by Javelin Strategy & Research revealed that smartphone users have a 33 percent greater likelihood of becoming victims of identity theft.
Even though approximately 62 percent of smartphone users have no password protection, the NFCC suggested that smartphone users protect their mobile devices with strong passwords. Additionally, anti-virus software, now available for smartphones, can help prevent hacking and “backup/writing” programs on home computers can back up information from smartphones and remotely delete the information if the phone is lost or stolen.
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Smartphone users should be careful with what sites and links they are using online. Just like home computers, smartphones are susceptible to viruses from hacking websites. If a smartphone is compromised without the user’s knowledge, thieves can use it as a continuing source for vital information.
Unfortunately, not all identity thefts can be prevented, even by the most diligent of consumers. Get your free copy of "What to Do If You've Been the Victim of I.D. Theft" here: http://www.caconsumeradvocate.com/id-theft-brochure/