In today’s fast-paced digital world, we trade our personal data for connection and convenience. But at what cost? Thanks to cybercrime and data breaches, financial scams and identity theft are more prevalent than ever. In fact, according to the Federal Trade Commission, people reported losing $10 billion to scams in 2023. There were also 2.6 million fraud reports the same year—and that’s just the crimes that were reported. So, the FTC, along with partners like the Better Business Bureau, launched Identity Theft Awareness Week (January 27–31, 2025). Throughout the week, they’ll provide webinars and resources designed to educate the public and help prevent identity theft. But first, we’ll get you started with some quick tips for how to protect yourself and your data.
Ways to Protect Yourself Against Identity Theft
Here are some simple steps you can take to spot threats and safeguard your most valuable information:
- Use strong, unique passwords: Avoid reusing passwords across accounts and consider using a password manager.
- Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA): Add an extra layer of security to your accounts.
- Shred sensitive documents: Properly dispose of paperwork containing personal or financial information.
- Monitor your accounts regularly: Check bank statements, credit card activity, and credit reports for any suspicious transactions.
- Beware of phishing scams: Don’t click on links or download attachments from unknown sources.
- Secure your devices: Keep software updated and use antivirus programs to protect against malware.
- Freeze your credit: Prevent unauthorized access to your credit file by freezing it with the major credit bureaus.
- Be cautious with personal information: Avoid oversharing details like your Social Security number or birthdate unless absolutely necessary.
Identity Theft Awareness Week Events
All week long, the FTC will be offering webinars and resources to educate you about what to watch out for and how to protect yourself. Events include:
Monday, January 27
- Webinar: The FTC and the BBB Institute for Marketplace Trust will discuss how scammers target military consumers, how to protect your personal and financial information and military benefits, and how to share what you know with others at 10 a.m. (PST). To join, click here.
Tuesday, January 28
- Webinar: The FTC and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs celebrate Identity Theft Awareness Week and Data Privacy Week in a discussion to help veterans spot and avoid scams and fraud. Check back for a link to view the event.
Wednesday, January 29
- Webinar: The FTC and Korean Community Center of Greater Washington discuss understanding and avoiding identity theft at 9 a.m. (PST). This event will be in Korean. To join click here.
Thursday, January 30
- Webinar: The FTC and Social Security Administration discuss understanding and avoiding identity theft at 9 a.m. (PST). To join click here.
- Webinar: The FTC and Social Security Administration discuss understanding and avoiding identity theft at 11 a.m. (PST). This event will be in Spanish. To join click here.
- Webinar: The FTC and UnidosUS discuss understanding and avoiding identity theft at 1 p.m. (PST).
Want more fraud prevention tips?
- Learn how to protect your personal information using mindfulness techniques.
- Find out how to secure your Alexa, Google Assistant, or Siri device.
- Get tips on how to spot debt relief scams.