Have you ever stopped to think about what happens when you share your personal information online? In today’s world, it’s easy to hand over your name, email, phone number and other details without thinking twice. But sharing too much information can lead to major problems like identity theft, stolen credit card information, and fraud. These issues…
Have you ever stopped to think about what happens when you share your personal information online?
In today’s world, it’s easy to hand over your name, email, phone number and other details without thinking twice. But sharing too much information can lead to major problems like identity theft, stolen credit card information, and fraud.
These issues aren’t just about money, they can cause stress, frustration, and long-term risks to your privacy. Every year, millions of people fall victim to scams, and it is becoming more difficult to detect the methods used by hackers. From spoof emails to identity theft, these threats can surprise even the most cautious among us.
I see scams all the time, and sometimes they seem so real that I wonder if they’re real or not!
Just last week, I was waiting for an email from my insurance agent when I received a very similar email from a scammer claiming to be my agent. The subject of the email was similar to what I was talking about with my agent. I almost fell for the scam because I wasn’t focused and paying attention.
A friend of mine once lost his house deposit during a phishing scam. They received an email from someone pretending to be their mortgage lender. Everything seemed legitimate, right down to the sender’s name. But it was a scam, and they ended up losing $25,000.
Fortunately, there are tools and strategies that can help protect your personal information and reduce these risks. Let’s take a look at the dangers of oversharing and steps you can take to protect your information.
The real risks of sharing personal information
First, let’s talk about the real risks of sharing your personal information.
1. Identity theft
Identity theft occurs when someone steals your personal information and pretends to be you.
Thieves can use your name, Social Security number, or other details to open credit cards, take out loans, or even commit crimes. This can cost you a lot of money and time to fix.
Did you know that millions of people deal with identity theft every year? The FTC says many victims spend more than $1,000 of their own money to solve the problem. And this doesn’t include all the hours spent fixing credit reports and arguing with banks.
It’s a big headache.
2. Stolen credit card information
Your credit card information can be stolen in several ways. Hackers may obtain this information through a data breach, a skimming device at a store, or even through a fake website. Once they have your card details, they can make purchases in your name. While banks often cover fraudulent charges, it can take weeks to fix everything. Meanwhile, your bills may be late, and you may face fees.
Globally, credit card fraud costs billions of dollars every year. Even if you are compensated, the stress and inconvenience are real. You may have to get a new card, update your autopay accounts, and monitor your statements closely.
3. Phishing scams
Phishing scams can come in the form of fake emails or messages that appear to be from trusted companies. They are designed to trick you into sharing personal details, such as passwords or account numbers.
These scams are becoming more difficult to detect.
One click on a fraudulent link can give hackers access to sensitive information. My friend’s story is a sad reminder: even the smallest mistake can lead to major consequences.
4. Phone number scams
Your phone number may seem harmless, but scammers can use it to do serious harm. Using just your number, they can:
- Access your online accounts – Many websites use your phone number for account recovery. Fraudsters can trick mobile carriers into porting your number to their SIM card (a process called SIM swapping). This allows them to take over your accounts, including email, banking and social media.
- Phishing and SMS phishing – Scammers may call or text you pretending to be from a legitimate company. They can use these interactions to steal sensitive information, resulting in loss of your funds or unauthorized access to your accounts.
These scams are becoming more difficult to detect because they seem so real.
To protect yourself, it’s important to limit where you share your phone number and use tools like Surfshark’s Alternate Number, which gives you a virtual number for safer online interactions.
Costs go beyond money
The financial problems caused by sharing your information are bad enough, but there are other hidden costs as well:
1. Stress and anxiety
Imagine finding out that someone stole your identity or emptied your bank account. The stress can be a lot! It can take months of phone calls, emails, and paperwork to sort everything out.
2. Loss of confidence
Once your information is stolen, it becomes difficult to trust websites, apps, or even emails. You may be hesitant to shop online or sign up for services. This can make everyday tasks more difficult.
3. Ongoing risks
Even if you fix the problem, your information may still be there. Hackers can sell your data and it can be used again. This means that you should stay alert and continue monitoring your accounts.
How to protect yourself
The best way to avoid these problems is to take steps to protect your information. Here are some simple tips:
1. Have smart online habits
– Use strong passwords: Make sure your passwords are long and unique for each account. Do not reuse old passwords, as they can sometimes be found on the dark web.
– Turn on two-factor authentication: This adds an extra layer of security. Even if someone steals your password, they won’t be able to get into your account without a second verification step (such as having a code sent to your cell phone via text message).
– Be careful what you share: Think before you share personal details, especially on social media.
– Don’t click on suspicious links: If an email or message looks suspicious, don’t click on it. Go directly to the website instead.
– Contact the person directly to verify telegraphic information: Do not rely solely on email. I always call and talk to a real person I know. You don’t want to just contact the person listed in the email, in case the email is fake. Instead, find the phone number of the person you’ve been dealing with and call them – it only takes a minute and can save you from falling for a scam.
– Use identity theft notification tools to be alerted when your real information or your family’s information is online (Surfshark has an alert, Which you can find here)
2. Use privacy tools
Surfshark’s tools make protecting your personal information much easier. Here’s how:
– Alternate ID: This tool gives you a new identity to use online. It includes a fake name, email address, and other details, so you don’t have to share your real information. This is great for signing up for websites or newsletters without worrying about spam or data breaches. You can learn more about the alternative Surfshark ID here.
– Alternative number: This is a virtual phone number that you can use instead of your real number. It’s perfect for online shopping or any time you need to give out a phone number. You can still receive calls and texts, but your real number remains private. You can also use this number to sign up for discounts so your real phone number stays spam-free. An alternate number can reduce data sharing, robocalls, SMS phishing, and more. You can learn more about Surfshark alternate number here.
Surfshark also sells a VPN to encrypt your internet connection, CleanWeb to block ads and trackers, and a data breach monitoring feature.
It is an all-in-one solution for privacy and security.
What I like about Surfshark is how easy it is to use. You don’t need to be tech-savvy to use it, and customer support is always there if you have questions.
Please click here to learn more about Surfshark.
Why privacy saves money
Protecting your information not only keeps you safe, it can also save you money. Here’s how:
1. Avoid expensive repairs
Recovering from identity theft or fraud can be very expensive. You may have to hire an attorney, pay for credit monitoring, or cover fraudulent charges until your bank reimburses you.
2. There are no hidden fees
When your accounts are hacked, you may miss bill payments because your bank freezes your account. This can result in late fees or even higher interest rates. Keeping your information secure helps you avoid these costs.
3. Long-term benefits
The peace of mind that comes with protecting your information is priceless. You can shop, browse and subscribe to services without worrying about fraud or abuse. Plus, by preventing problems now, you save yourself time and money in the future.
What you can do now to protect your personal information
Your personal information is valuable (and important!), and protecting it is easier than you think. Don’t wait until it’s too late.
I still remember the stress I felt when I received the first suspicious email claiming to be from my bank, which made me take protecting my personal information seriously.
By controlling your personal information, you also control your financial future. Stay safe, maintain your privacy, and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing your information is safe.
Please click here to learn more about Surfshark.
What steps do you take to protect your personal information online? Let me know in the comments!