When we think about getting ready for college, we think of studying, filling out applications, and finding a good roommate among other things.  We don’t normally think about our credit.  But seldom do we think of protecting our identity.  The Identity Theft Resource Center (ITRC) says it’s important to go to college with knowledge about identity theft and other scams that you may encounter while living on your own for the first time. 

Many college students don’t usually believe that identity theft will affect them, considering the fact that most college students don’t have a lot of money, or great credit scores.  But identity theft isn’t just about stealing money or other financial assets, it can also be about stealing personal or financial information and using those details to try to open credit card accounts, secure a loan, or commit other fraudulent acts. In some cases, students moving to college can be a target for identity theft. During this large transition in life, the information that identifies them, may be in a lot of different places, because of these changes, such as moving into a dorm or apartment, filling out background checks to sign a lease or activate utilities, or applying for colleges or employment. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) notes that 20 percent of identity theft incidents reported in its Consumer Sentinel Network Data Book in 2018 were committed against victims ages 29 and under.  

Here are some ways you can stay safe from identity theft as a teen: 

1. Avoid Joining public Wi-Fi Servers. Public Wi-Fi networks are not secure. That means  when you go to a busy, public setting to do work on your computer, someone can intercept your server, and what you’re looking at on the web. That might include your email, browsing history and passwords.  Always try to use a virtual private network, aka a VPN.  A VPN creates an encrypted connection between your computer and the VPN server. As a result, a nearby hacker is not able to intercept your information. If you’re tempted to perform a financial transaction—like, buying something on the internet, you will need a VPN.  Some examples of good, secure VPN’s, are: Hotspot Sheild, NordVPN, and Expressvpn. 
2.  Beware of your surroundings. Take time to make sure someone isn’t glancing over your shoulder while you enter your PIN number at an ATM or key in personal information into your cell phone. Think twice about providing personal information over the phone if someone is within listening distance.
3. Use strong passwords on every device. A strong password includes letters, numbers and symbols. It’s a good idea to have separate passwords for all your devices, including computer, tablet, and cellphone. 

4. Frequently track bank account activity and get a copy of your credit report. Many banks have apps that can alert you to any strange purchases or credit depletion, and with identity theft, time is of the essence. The more oblivious a student is to this, the more time the identity thief has to rack up more infractions against you.