Windows Defender is a popular anti-malware program designed by Microsoft to help protect users from malicious software, including viruses, spyware, ransomware, and other malicious programs. However, it does not provide protection against identity theft, so users should take additional steps to protect themselves from this type of crime.
Identity theft is when someone obtains another person’s personal information and then uses it to open credit cards, take out loans, access bank accounts, and commit other fraudulent activities. It can be especially dangerous because it can cause lasting damage to the victim’s credit score and cause them financial hardship.
Fortunately, there are a few things users can do to protect themselves from identity theft. The first is to practice safe online habits. This includes using strong passwords that are regularly changed, avoiding suspicious links or emails, and only providing personal information to secure websites. Additionally, users should check their credit report regularly and set up alerts with credit agencies so they can catch any suspicious activity quickly.
If users want extra protection from identity theft, they can also consider using identity theft protection services. These services monitor users’ credit profiles for any suspicious activity, alert them if anything is detected, and provide assistance in the event of a theft.
Finally, users should use multi-factor authentication whenever possible. This requires users to input an additional code each time they log in to a website, making it more difficult for hackers to gain access to their accounts.
Ultimately, while Windows Defender can provide users with protection from malicious software, it can’t protect them from identity theft. To protect themselves from identity theft, users should follow the tips above. Doing so can help ensure they stay safe and secure online.