The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) recently released a report that there are 12.6 million identity theft victims in 2012. The largest total recorded was in 2009 when 13.9 million people had parts of their identity stolen. Whether these thefts were taking social security numbers or bank information, or other information, people and companies need to do a greater job of protecting information.
Symantec released their Internet Security Threat Report this week, and found that cyber attacks on small businesses made up 31% of targeted attacks. Small businesses are a great place for identity theft to occur. Companies keep information on employees such as names, addresses, social security numbers, and bank account information for direct deposit.
Companies and individuals should be diligent with protecting information on employees. The Hartford suggests that with $3 billion in thefts due to cyber attacks, companies and individuals should exercise the following precautions when it comes to personal information.
- Perform background checks on employees with access to others information
- Do not store information on laptops or portable devices
- Store information in protected databases
- Do not let management store valuable employee information outside of human resources
- Train your staff on the importance of protecting this information.
Identity thieves can use many ways of getting personal information. From phishing sites to targeted attacks on a business, to hacking mobile devices, there is lots of ways to lose your information. Take the necessary precautions when it comes to your information, and that of your employees and employer.
RMIA is a full service insurance agency serving the needs of hundreds of clients. Personal, Commercial, Business and Health insurance; whatever your need, we can protect you. Call us today.
