7 habits that keep your personal information out of criminal hands
23 October 2026 · Omnitrace
Before: you tap "accept" without reading, reuse one password everywhere and send your ID on WhatsApp because a "courier" asked for it. After: your accounts are locked down and scammers hit a wall. The bridge is seven habits that take less than an hour to set up.
1. Use a different password for every account
When one site is breached, criminals try the same email and password on your bank, email and social media. A password manager remembers them for you. Start with your email and banking app.
2. Switch on two-step verification
Turn it on for email, WhatsApp, Facebook and banking. Even with your password, a thief still needs the code on your phone.
3. Never share an OTP or PIN
No real bank, SARS official or courier will ask for your one-time PIN. If someone asks, it is a scam. End the call.
4. Guard your phone like your wallet
Use a screen lock, cover your screen when typing PINs in public and set up remote wipe. An unlocked stolen phone gives a thief your banking, email and contacts.
5. Think before you post
Your birthday, your child's school and your holiday dates help criminals guess security answers and plan crimes. Set profiles to private and share less.
6. Only send copies of your ID when you must
When you do, write the purpose and date across the copy, for example "For ABC Rentals lease only, 23/10/2026". That makes it much harder to reuse.
7. Check your credit report every year
You are entitled to a free credit report every year from each South African credit bureau. Look for accounts or enquiries you don't recognise. They are often the first sign of identity theft.
This article is general information, not legal or financial advice.
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