Summer has come to an end and fall weather has arrived here in the Midwest. The 4th quarter of the year is always busy for families both personally and professionally. Engulfed in the hecticness of the holiday season our due diligence can faulter. We want to give you a refresher on the best ways to protect your identity and stay diligent in a world where someone’s identity is stolen every two seconds.
The Basics: What is identity theft protection, Why is it important, and Who does it affect?
Identity Theft is when someone uses your personal information for their personal gain. It is the fastest growing white-collar crime in America. Identity Theft Protection protects and remediates Identity Theft to bring you back to pre-theft status. Providing you a team of professionals to help navigate a very difficult time.
Once identity theft strikes, it can take hundreds of hours and thousands of dollars to correct the impact to bring you back to pre-theft status. The numbers are stark, and the prevalence of the issue continues to grow. Having identity theft protection is an essential element to anyone's financial plan.
Identity Theft is a non-discriminatory event. It can happen to anyone, anywhere, at any time regardless of age, education, wealth level, location, etc. everyone should have some form of Identity Theft Protection.
What can you do to protect your identity?
- Create strong passwords that you change often.
- Use multi factor authentication when possible.
- Set a lock screen/password on your electronic devices (phone, tablet, laptop).
- Be skeptical of emails asking for personal information. If you are unsure of an email, call our team for guidance.
- Protect your computer with antivirus software.
- Be wary of what you see on social media.
- Frequently review financial accounts. If possible, log into primary bank accounts daily.
- Shred unnecessary documents. Bring into our office for complimentary shredding.
- Freeze Your Credit Scores: Our team has instructions on how to do this if you need help.
- Enroll in an identity theft protection program:attached is information on Baird’s recommended vendor infoArmor.
We feel a person’s identity theft protection is an essential part of their overall financial plan. After all, its just another way we want to help protect what you have worked so hard to build.
We’re Remodeling: Pardon Our Dust!
We have some exciting news to share with you. We are beginning construction to our office space that will better serve your needs, and it will continue through May/June 2025. During this time, we will continue to work from our current location. However, you will find less staff present as we rotate who works remotely. If there is someone you need to see in person, please call ahead. We appreciate the trust you’ve placed in us and look forward to the opportunity to show you our new office when construction is complete.
Team News:
Family update from the Kendzicky’s, Michael and Brooke are expecting their second child due in February! Mike and Colleen will be up to 7 Grandkids under 5!
Strategas Q3 Market Update:
Strategas reviews the eventful quarter just passed and explains why the team remains “bullish till the bill comes due.” Click Here to read there Q3 Market Update.