By The Executive Security Operations Concierge (ESOC) team, PFC Safeguards
Your personally identifiable information (PII) is very valuable and vulnerable. When enough data is gathered/collected, it provides a detailed snapshot of you: who you are, what you do, when, and where you do it. In the wrong hands, this information can expose you to financial, physical, and reputational risks.
What is PII?
PII is an ever-growing body of data we create while doing anything digitally, including social media activities, shopping, banking, and simply browsing the internet. PII is found on any device you use, in apps, and in tools. Even paper forms that are digitized and uploaded leave a digital trail.
PII is any data that directly identifies you. PII may include your full name, email addresses, social security number, phone numbers, driver’s license number, IP addresses, passport number, home address, geolocation data, and other sensitive data like medical records or biometric data. The more data points that can be discovered about you and your family, the more vulnerable you are.
Why Does This Matter?
Pieces of your PII are found within the accounts you use / your accounts, such as your Google ID, usernames, or password hints. This data can then be linked to your name, your email address, and the apps you have. Contained within apps are personal details such as your date of birth, where you walk and run, and movement patterns maintained in map apps. Data from messaging apps can even reveal your current and past locations. When PII is exposed, it can result in substantial financial loss, physical harm, or brand damage through identity theft or access to accounts.
What Can I Do?
You cannot avoid it. Your PII is tied to everything you do. It is unavoidable. Your PII is connected to every aspect of your life, including bank accounts, investment accounts, credit cards, driver’s licenses, and taxes. The less information that can be discovered about you and your family, the more secure you are. We help you navigate this complex challenge with our people, processes, and technologies.
Protecting Your Personally Identifiable Information
Limit Public Social Media Postings: Nothing on the internet is private. Ensure your social media accounts are as private as possible and not easily discoverable. Never accept contact requests from any account unless you know the owner and have verified the account’s authenticity.
Lock and Password Protect Your Devices. Locking your devices protects you better from PII theft. Use strong passwords, PINs, facial recognition, and or thumbprint ID to ensure your devices are locked. Apple and Android offer step-by-step guides for safeguarding your devices and remotely wiping them if lost, stolen, or when disposing of them.
Keep Your Social Security Number (SSN) Private. Avoid carrying your Social Security card in your wallet. Use an alternative form of identification when possible. There are a few instances where your SSN should be disclosed:
- Employment or contracting opportunities
- Health insurance
- Financial and real estate transactions
- Credit cards or loan applications
Hackers may obtain your SSN because the entity maintaining it digitally is compromised. Dark web mining services can determine/assess the level of exposure for critical pieces of information such as your SSN.
· Remain Vigilant for Phishing Attacks. Phishing attacks are specifically designed to steal your PII. These attacks may initially appear to be from a trusted source such as well-known brands, financial institutions, or even friends.
· Use a Virtual Private Network (VPN). A VPN encrypts your internet connection to keep your online activity private on any network.
· Monitor Your Credit. Address past issues and new challenges as they come up. A free credit report is available at Federal Trade Commission.
