The OPP is sharing tips on keeping your data safe.
The tips come after six million Canadians with Capital One had their personal information hacked. OPP Constable Catherine Yarmel says that there is a number of things you can do to keep your data safe.
One tip is to ask a caller or requester why they need your information and how they will safeguard it. Yarmel says to shred anything paper that could hold your information, like receipts, credit card offers, credit applications and insurance forms. She also suggests removing mail from your mailbox as soon as possible as it could be raided by those looking for information. She says you could go as far as destroying the labels on prescription bottles as they can also be used to obtain your personal information.
Among other important points, Yarmel adds is to not overshare your life on social media. Posting too much about your life could give people access to not only personal information but also hints that can help scammers guess passwords on some of your online accounts. Yarmel also reminds internet users to not open files or links unless they know where they are coming from. They could be part of phishing schemes.
If you feel your information has been compromised, contact any institution you have accounts with to flag them. If you are out a sum of money from a bank or know your information has been compromised, Yarmel urges you to contact the police. She reminds the public that identity is a criminal offence that could be severe depending on the amount of money taken.
Written by Trevor Smith-Millar