Why Identity Protection Matters

1 in 15 Europeans has been a victim of identity theft. Criminals use stolen personal data to open bank accounts, take out loans, or commit fraud in your name.

Here are 7 practical steps to protect yourself.

Step 1: Use Strong, Unique Passwords

Every account should have a unique password. Use a password manager like Bitwarden (free) or 1Password to generate and store them.

Minimum 12 characters

Mix of letters, numbers, and symbols

Never reuse passwords across sites

Step 2: Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

Add an extra layer of security to your most important accounts:

Banking

Social media

Cloud storage

Use an authenticator app (Google Authenticator, Authy) rather than SMS.

Step 3: Be Careful What You Share on Social Media

Scammers use your posts to:

Answer security questions (pet names, school, birthplace)

Create convincing phishing messages

Impersonate you to your contacts

Step 4: Monitor Your Financial Accounts

Check your bank statements regularly. Set up transaction alerts so you're notified of any activity. In the Netherlands, you can check your BKR credit report annually.

Step 5: Secure Your Devices

Keep your OS and apps **updated**

Use **antivirus software**

Enable **remote wipe** on your phone

Don't use public WiFi for sensitive transactions

Step 6: Be Wary of Data Requests

Never share your BSN (citizen service number), passport scans, or bank details unless absolutely necessary and you've verified the requestor.

Step 7: Use GuardScan for Suspicious Messages

When you receive an unexpected message asking for personal information, don't respond. Paste it into GuardScan first to check if it's legitimate.

What If Your Identity Is Stolen?

**Contact your bank** immediately and freeze accounts

**File a police report**

**Report to the Fraudehelpdesk** (fraudehelpdesk.nl)

**Check and freeze your credit** at BKR

**Change all passwords** starting with email and banking

7 Simple Steps to Protect Your Identity Online