Think you are protected from hackers because you have the latest security program, including anti-malware and antivirus software? Think again.

No matter how secure you think your computer or device is, all are vulnerable to hacker attacks.

Every day, Hackers are coming up more ways to steal personal information.

That is why it is essential for you to learn about all of the potential ways to have your identity stolen. When it comes to things like that you may want to talk to professionals such as those with IT services in Ottawa. Here are some of the weirdest ways that hackers use to gain access to your most sensitive personal information.

1. Taking Over Your Health Insurance

Many people do not think about their Health Insurance as being valuable to thieves. But, because medical costs are so expensive, your insurance is a target for thieves. They will basically obtain medical services using your benefits. You are then left with their medical records, which can be a big hassle to sort out. If the services are completely covered by your insurance, you might not even be aware of the problem for some time as you will not likely receive a bill from the medical provider.

Therefore, it is a very good idea to read all of the paperwork that you receive from your health insurance company. Review the forms very carefully and report any services that you did not receive to your health care insurer right away.

2. Stealing Your Tax Refund

The IRS’s automated fraud-detection system has led to a growing number of tax returns being fraudulently filed. In fact, CNBC reports that tax return fraud is expected to hit $21 billion in 2016. All someone needs to fraudulently file a tax return is someone’s name, social security number and birth date. Many people do not find out that a fraudulent tax return was filed in their name until they go to file a real one and it is rejected by the IRS. The only thing that you can do to prevent this from happening is to file your taxes as early as possible.

3. Holding Your Computer Files for Ransom

Cybercriminals have started using encryption to hold Computer Files ransom. Encryption essentially locks files and hackers refuse to unencrypt the files unless a ransom is paid. Hackers that use ransomware tend to target small businesses, hospitals and schools. These small businesses heavily rely on their computer files.

There is not currently anything that can be done once your files fall victim to ransomware other than to pay. Bedrock IT recommends that businesses be proactive when it comes to data protection and network security. Therefore, back up your computer files often to reduce the likelihood of data loss.

Conclusion

Overall, whenever you put information online it can be in danger. That is why it is so essential that you do all that you can to learn about protecting it and take every action you can to do so. It may seem like a lot of work now, but it is definitely well worth it.