Depending on how much time you are online, are you leaving your finances vulnerable?

For many consumers, they walk a dangerous tightrope when it comes to their finances.

While many of them want and even need to use the Internet, they do so at their own risk.

From hacking to volunteering personal info online without thinking, many end up in a hole.

So, are you doing the wrong things and taking chances on the Internet?

Be Alert to Your Online Activities

First, you want to be alert to what you are doing online.

An example of this would be when using public computers. Such is the case if you go to a public library and do not take your laptop with you. As a result, you may well end up using one of the computers in the library.

With that in mind, what level of assurance do you have that the computer has not been hacked at some point? The answer in most cases is you do not know this. As such, you could be opening up a can of trouble.

What happens if your financial information you talk about online is compromised? How long could it take for you to get back on your feet with your finances?

Along with using commonsense online, have as much protection follow you around as you can.

One layer of protection is an identity theft protection provider monitoring your funds.

In reviewing Identity Guard service plans or another brand, you want to take the time to look at:

• History – Review how long the provider you are leaning towards going with has been in business. This will help you to get a better perspective of how they’ve helped other consumers over time.
• Track record – Does the company have a proven track record during its time in business? Have there been any issues with them and the Better Business Bureau (BBB)? Always take the time to see if they have a record of success or too many bumps in the road.
• Customer service – Along with a strong record of customer service, do they make it easy to reach out to them? Review their websites to see how easy it is to contact them.

Don’t Be Too Social

Along with not giving out details on finances when on websites, watch what you do on social media.

An example of this would be volunteering too much info when on Facebook and other social sites.

Keep in mind that many criminals use social media as a way to find their next victim.

Like you do not want to state you’re on a trip and your home is empty, be smart with comments when socializing online. Do not tell others where you bank at, what kind of financial accounts you have and more.

In being smart about what you do on the Internet; you lower the chances of becoming yet another statistic.

So you do not slip up by revealing sensitive info, something that can leave your credit score a mess, be smart on the web.