Decree drafted to protect personal data

Cell phones, laptops, and tablets are easily lost or stolen. If you don't require a password to log in, then a thief has instant access to all your data.

Many of us are guilty of using the same, easy-to-remember password over and over. This is risky behavior, because if identity thieves figure out one password, it's not hard to get into more of your accounts.

Your bank probably requires this already—when you log in from a new location, you must type in a code that's texted to your cell phone. Check your account settings to make sure this is enabled on all your accounts.

When you use a shared computer or a business's WiFi connection, you don't know how secure the network really is. Use your own device and secured network instead.

Update your software regularly.This includes antivirus software, your operating system, and anything else you use. Cyber threats change frequently, and many updates address security issues.

Don't give out your info. If you think the request may be legitimate, separately look up the organization's phone number and follow up by phone.

The most valuable thing on the devices and networks you use is the data you create and store there. Applications and operating systems can always be reinstalled, but user-created data is unique. If it gets lost or viewed without authorization, the outcome can be devastating.

Protecting your personal information can help reduce your risk of identity theft.

Lock your financial documents and records in a safe place at home, and lock your wallet or purse in a safe place at work. Keep your information secure from roommates or workers who come into your home.

When you go out, take only the identification, credit, and debit cards you need.

Before you share information at your workplace, a business, your child's school, or a doctor's office, ask why they need it, how they will safeguard it, and the consequences of not sharing.

Destroy the labels on prescription bottles before you throw them out. Don’t share your health plan information with anyone who offers free health services or products.

When you order new checks, don’t have them mailed to your home, unless you have a secure mailbox with a lock.

Know who you share your information with. Store and dispose of your personal information securely.

Make sure you know who is getting your personal or financial information. Don’t give out personal information on the phone, through the mail or over the Internet unless you’ve initiated the contact or know who you’re dealing with.

Before you dispose of a computer, get rid of all the personal information it stores. Use a wipe utility program to overwrite the entire hard drive.

Use strong passwords with your laptop, credit, bank, and other accounts.

If you post too much information about yourself, an identity thief can find information about your life

Never post your full name, Social Security number, address, phone number, or account numbers in publicly accessible sites.

Before you send personal information over your laptop or smartphone on a public wireless network in a coffee shop, library, airport, hotel, or other public place, see if your information will be protected.