Moving can expose seniors to identity theft and scams as data brokers collect personal information to sell to criminals, making it crucial to take steps to protect one’s data.
For many seniors, moving and downsizing can symbolize a fresh start. With a smaller home and less upkeep, it often opens the door to new friendships in retirement communities. However, this transition can also make them vulnerable to identity theft and scams.
Each year, over 3 million elderly Americans relocate, and unfortunately, this demographic is increasingly targeted by scammers. One individual shared her experience of moving her mother into an assisted living facility, only to have her fall victim to two scams before the packing was even completed. The scammers had quickly obtained her mother’s new address and exploited it.
This scenario is not uncommon. Research indicates that more than 70% of cybercrimes are linked to exposed personal data. The act of moving can significantly increase this exposure, as real estate listings, address changes, and moving company records are often collected by data brokers. These brokers then sell this information to criminals, creating a perfect storm for potential scams.
When individuals buy, sell, or change their address, their personal information can spread across numerous systems. Data brokers collect and bundle this information, making it readily available for purchase. This situation is particularly concerning for seniors, who may be preoccupied with the logistics of moving while their personal data is being targeted.
As seniors unpack boxes in their new homes, criminals are simultaneously unpacking their data. This duality highlights the importance of taking proactive measures to safeguard personal information during the moving process.
Data brokers automatically update their files when individuals move, meaning that new addresses, phone numbers, and property transaction details can appear on people-search websites almost instantaneously. Once this information is publicly accessible, scammers can easily acquire it.
The good news is that individuals do not have to tackle the challenge of removing their data from brokers alone. Personal data removal services can assist by contacting data brokers, requesting the removal of personal information, and ensuring that new details do not reappear online. This service functions similarly to hiring a moving company, but for personal data.
While no service can guarantee complete removal of personal data from the internet, utilizing a data removal service can be a wise investment. These services actively monitor and systematically erase personal information from numerous websites, providing peace of mind and reducing the risk of scammers cross-referencing data from breaches with information available on the dark web.
When changing addresses, it is essential to use the official USPS website or visit a local post office. Some third-party sites may appear to offer convenient services but often collect additional data that can be resold. By going directly to the source, individuals can minimize unnecessary exposure of sensitive information.
Additionally, selling a home involves more than just disclosing the price. Personal details such as names, previous addresses, and even photographs of the property can become part of the public record. It is advisable to consult with realtors about what information is automatically disclosed and whether any details can be limited or redacted. Being selective about what is shared can significantly reduce one’s personal footprint tied to a property.
Moving also presents an excellent opportunity to declutter. However, it is crucial not to simply discard old bills, medical statements, or financial records. Instead, these documents should be shredded to prevent identity theft. Despite the perception that dumpster diving is outdated, it remains a tactic used by scammers to obtain personal data. A reliable shredder can help ensure that sensitive information does not fall into the wrong hands.
While it may be tempting to share a “Goodbye, old house!” photo on social media, it is wise to resist this urge. Publicly announcing a move can inform scammers about when a home is empty and reveal a new address. Instead, sharing this news privately with family and close friends can enhance safety.
Another effective strategy for protecting personal information is to freeze credit. This action prevents new credit accounts from being opened in an individual’s name, even if scammers have access to personal details such as an address. Freezing credit is a straightforward process that can be done at no cost with all three major credit bureaus: Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. This measure creates a robust barrier against identity theft, allowing individuals to lift the freeze when necessary.
Moving should be a time of excitement and new beginnings, not an invitation for scammers to exploit vulnerabilities. By taking proactive steps to protect personal data, individuals can significantly reduce their risk of falling victim to fraud. Simple actions, such as shredding documents and freezing credit, can provide essential layers of protection. Ultimately, safeguarding personal information allows seniors to embark on their next chapter with confidence and peace of mind.
Source: Original article