We take steps every day to protect ourselves. We lock our doors at night, look both ways before crossing the street, and drive carefully. But have you thought about protecting your personal or financial information?

Safeguarding this kind of information is just as important. Identity theft and residential property theft, which occurs when someone uses your information or signature without your consent, is more common than you think. Thieves can steal this information in many way, which is why it’s crucial to properly dispose of documents containing sensitive details and redact information such as your home address, social security number, birthdate, loan information, and bank or credit card information.

According to the U.S. Department of Justice, one in five people will fall victim to these crimes at some point in their lives. To protect yourself, consider the following steps:

• Invest in a Personal Shredder: Use it to securely dispose of any documents containing sensitive personal information.
• Sign up for Property Fraud Alerts: This service offered by the Clerk of Court will notify you within 24 hours if anyone attempts to file a deed or other land record in your name. To enroll go to www.leeclerk.org/fraudalert.
• Monitor Financial Accounts: Regularly review your bank and credit card statements for unauthorized transactions.
• Periodically check Property Appraiser Website: Regularly review your information on the Property Appraiser website to ensure you are the registered owner of your property.
• Check Your Credit Report: Review it at least once a year to ensure accuracy and spot any signs of fraud.
• Opt into Electronic Delivery: Choosing an electronic statement or property bill is an easy way to ensure your information doesn’t get into the hands of a criminal. If a bill doesn’t arrive on time, contact the company immediately to investigate.
• Be Cautious with Social Media: Most information you put on the internet can be searched, stolen, or used against you. Be careful not to post information that criminals can use to their advantage.
• Invest in Complex Passwords: Hackers around the world are becoming more sophisticated and companies you give your information to are the target.  Consider changing your passwords often and never use the same password for more than one account. Passwords should be longer than 13 characters and have a mixture of letters, numbers, and symbols.

By taking these proactive measures and staying vigilant, you can significantly reduce your risk of falling victim to these unfortunate crimes.

Kevin Karnes is Lee County’s Clerk of the Circuit Court & Comptroller.