Tips to protect your information

Be careful with what you share

• Think about what information you share, who you share it with, and where you share it — especially on social media, where details like your date of birth can be seen by others.
• If someone wants your personal information, ask why the organisation or individual needs it and what they intend to do with it before you share it.

Keep your devices secure

• Use unique, long and complex passwords.
• Keep your passwords safe — do not write them down.
• Never share your passwords or PIN numbers.
• If able, turn on extra security, such as adding extra elements to your logon (this is known as two-factor authentication).
• Do not use public computers, such as those in libraries, to do internet banking or any other sensitive transactions.
• Do not let anyone access your computer remotely.
• Remove all personal information from computers and other devices, such as mobile phones and tablets, before you dispose of them.

Take steps to protect your information

• Check your accounts regularly and be suspicious of any unusual activity (for example, letters from creditors or bank transactions you do not remember making).
• Keep important identification documents (such as a birth certificate and passport) in a secure place.
• If you move to a new home, ensure all your mail is forwarded to your new address.
• Dispose of documents containing your personal information carefully. Shred or burn bank statements, electricity bills, and other documents with your name and address. Do not put them in public rubbish or recycling bins. If you receive statements digitally, store them safely on your computer or device.
• Use these free reports to spot unusual activity linked to you:
  • Check your own credit record — to see all credit accounts in your name (such as credit cards and loans)
  • Get an access register report — to find out who has requested your birth, marriage, civil union and name change records (since 25 January 2009).

Stay alert and informed

• Tell your family, friends and colleagues if you notice any suspicious activity.
• Share updates from the NZ Police, your bank or reliable media about current scams. This information can help keep everyone safer.

Other useful websites

Scamwatch

Scamwatch website has information about how to recognise, avoid, and act against scams, protect personal information, and prevent identity theft both online and offline.

Scamwatch — Consumer Protection

Netsafe

Netsafe is an independent, non-profit organisation that promotes online safety. Their website provides support and information to help people stay safe online.

Netsafe

Privacy Commissioner

The Privacy Commissioner’s website provides information about the Privacy Act and how to protect your privacy. You can complain to the Privacy Commissioner if you think your privacy has been breached.

Protect your personal information — Privacy Commissioner

Spam prevention

The Department of Internal Affairs (DIA) enforces the law that helps reduce unsolicited emails and text messages, commonly known as spam. Their website explains how to avoid spam and how to report it.

Spam — DIA