IDENTITY and data theft, Internet threats and business continuity remain the top trends driving application security investments in Malaysia this year. This was the result of a recent security poll based on over 200 information technology (IT) decision-makers, representing close to 150 organisations.

It is interesting to note that 27.9 per cent of the survey respondents pointed out identity and data theft as a major threat to their organisations. This was followed closely by Internet threats with 26.29 per cent and business continuity with 18.28 per cent.

Speaking of identity and data theft, the recent case in England involving the loss of two computer discs containing details about almost half the population, is said to be one of the biggest security breaches in the country’s history.

In the United Kingdom, The Home Office, in collaboration with other government departments and private sector organisations, has set up the Home Office Identity Fraud Steering Committee (http://www.identity-theft.org.uk) to tackle identity theft.

The Web site explains that criminals commit identity theft by stealing personal information, and assume the owner’s identity. This is done by taking documents from your rubbish or by making contact with you and pretending to be from a legitimate organisation.

Criminals can find your personal details and use them to open bank accounts and get credit cards, loans, state benefits and documents such as passports and driving licences in your name.

To avoid this, safeguard your personal information. For example, if your credit card(s) are lost or stolen, cancel them immediately. Be careful if you live in a property where other people could access your mail. And, if you move house, tell your bank, card issuer and all other organisations that you deal with immediately.

Another thing to look out for is when giving your credit card details or personal information over the phone or Internet, make sure there is no one around to hear or see your personal information.

When not in use, keep credit cards and personal documents in a safe place. Do not throw away entire bills, receipts, credit card slips, bank statements or even unwanted post in your name. Destroy unwanted documents by using a shredder. Check statements as soon as they arrive. If any unfamiliar transactions are listed, contact the company immediately.

A rule of thumb is, never give personal or account details to anyone who contacts you unexpectedly. Be suspicious even if they claim to be from your bank or the police. Ask for their phone number, check if it is genuine and, if so, call them back. Be aware that a bank will never ask for your personal identification number or password.

It may be difficult to remember many passwords but, in any case, do not use the same password for more than one account and never use banking passwords for other Web sites. Using different passwords increases security and makes it less likely that someone could access other accounts.

With these guidelines, do take precaution when talking on the phone or surfing online. After all, prevention is better than cure.