Office paper recycling is one of the easiest and most common ways a workplace can help protect the environment. Paper recycling saves trees. In fact, about 200 pounds of shredded and recycled paper saves one tree. Also, with the risk of security breaches at an all-time high, it’s important that every workplace prioritizes data security, while making a commitment to green office strategies and initiatives such as Earth Day.
Identity theft happens when someone uses your personal information without your permission for financial gain. Better Business Bureau offers tips on how to avoid becoming another statistic.
• Check your credit reports regularly. You're allowed one free credit report per year from each of the three credit bureaus at www.annualcreditreport.com.
• Monitor account statements to be sure you were the source for all activity.
• Shred credit card applications and statements before throwing them away.
• Never give out personal information to unfamiliar people or companies.
• Be careful when banking using mobile app. Don’t log in through public Wi-Fi because a thief may be able to intercept your personal information.
• Look for secured websites. Make sure the website has a locked padlock icon and “https” in the URL address.
• Protect your PINs and other passwords and change them regularly. Avoid using easily available information, such as your birth date, the last four digits of your social security number, phone number, etc.
• Limit the number of cards you carry and cut up credit cards before throwing them away.
• Consider opting out of pre-approved credit card offers, which can be stolen from your mailbox by identity thieves. Call (888) 5OPT-OUT (678-688) to have your name removed.
• Update your computer with the latest anti-virus and anti-spyware software.
• Don’t respond to e-mails requesting you verify personal information. Avoid unsolicited e-mails and never click on links from unknown sources.
• Keep your mail safe because it contains a variety of personal information. Stop mail delivery if you’re traveling.
• Sign up for the Do Not Call List at www.donotcall.gov.
Remember, BBB will be hosting its Secure Your ID Day on Saturday, April 22, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Roustong Funeral Home at 81 N. Main St., Centerville. At this free event, your BBB will shred documents containing personal information for you onsite to help protect you from ID thieves.
If you have any questions regarding identity theft, visit www.bbb.org or call (937) 222-5825 or (800) 776-5301.
John North is president of the Dayton Better Business Bureau.
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