Identity theft remains one of the most damaging cybercrimes, affecting millions of Americans each year. According to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), over 1.1 million identity theft reports were filed in the U.S. in 2023 alone. Understanding how identity theft happens and how to prevent it is more important than ever. SurfSafe's product helps address some threats of identity theft by blocking certain kinds of online fraud and malware. Our system is updated monthly (and sometimes weekly) with filters created in our computer forensic lab research, although no system is 100% perfect.

Key Tips to Prevent Identity Theft:

1. Monitor Your Credit Report Regularly
   Federal law allows you to get a free credit report every 12 months from each of the three major bureaus. Visit the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) to learn how to request yours safely
   
   

2. Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
   Most major platforms like Google, Apple, and Microsoft offer MFA — a critical tool to block unauthorized access.
   
   

3. Use Strong, Unique Passwords
   Avoid reusing passwords. Password managers like 1Password or Bitwarden as well as built-in options in browsers like Chrome and Edge, can help you generate and store them securely.

4. Shred Physical Documents
   Bank statements, tax records, and health documents should never go in the trash intact.
   
   

5. Report Suspicious Activity Immediately
   If you suspect theft, report it to IdentityTheft.gov, the FTC's dedicated portal.
   
   

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