ID Theft

does deleting browsing history help with identity theft protection? i buy stuff online?

am worried about the news about using the internet and phone to buy things...

Public Comments

1. Deleting your history really has no effect on identity theft, the way that your identity can get stolen is if you have spam programs on your computer, or you aren't buying from legit websites. I would suggest to only buy online from VISA verified sellers or by using PAYPAL. This way you are protected against fraudulent websites. Make sure the credit card you are using has identity theft protection, which means if purchases are made that you didn't verify, you aren't liable for any charges. Closely monitor your credit card bills each month and immediately call your credit card company or bank if there are any suspicious charges. And most importantly, keep close tabs on your credit score, alot of credit card companies offer credit reports for $1, or you can get your credit report online. Closely monitoring your credit cards and your credit report can't protect you from ever having your identity stolen, because it can happen to anyone, regardless if they buy things online or over the phone or in stores. But by monitoring the important things you can alert the proper people before it spirals out of control, and if spotted soon enough, you won't be held accountable. Best Wishes
2. This only helps if you have reason to suspect that people who have physical access to the computer you're using (family, friends who use it, children, relatives, roommates) would steal your identity. And even then, virtually all reputable sites are COMPLETELY secure. You run a much greater risk of identity theft by losing your wallet, or even using your credit card or a check at the store than you do by shopping online. With online shopping, no human being ever sees your credit card number. It's all done automatically. And your browsing history/cache/cookies generally do not store any senstive information. Don't let freak news reports and scare tacts frighten you. The internet is a very safe place to shop.
3. Hi, I would be too. Deleting the history won't do a thing. What you need to watch out for is website the "act" like they sell stuff to obtain your credit card number. You need to check out the word "phishing" at http://wikipedia.com or http://webopedia.com and learn what it is. Good Luck!!!
4. You should worry about virues and spyware. This site has a good list of free ones http://www.basicspywaretips.com/
5. If you need to protect your personal and financial information or want more help with identity theft check out http://identitytheftnow.com
6. Browsing history really won't help. The unfortunate thing is that ID theft can happen anywhere you spend money or make a transaction, whether online or offline. If you are really worried about ID theft, you can read about ID theft protection here ( http://www.getbrokequick.com/identity-theft-protection.php )