iovation Provides Eight Digital Safety Tips for College-Bound Kids

PORTLAND, OR--(Marketwired - Jul 22, 2014) - iovation, the trusted source for mobile and online fraud prevention to safeguard businesses, is providing eight digital safety tips for college-bound kids as part of its dedication to making the Internet a safer place for everyone. In this 24/7 digital world, sending a son or daughter off to college can be a daunting task. Of course, parents want to do everything possible to prepare their children for a successful transition. Previous generations didn't need to have "the digital talk" but in a world where what goes online stays online, it's essential.

"We understand how sophisticated fraudsters can be and everyone at iovation works hard to stop schemes that negatively impact businesses and consumers," said CEO Greg Pierson. "As a company focused on stopping online fraud, and as parents, we strongly recommend talking about online safety early and often. The transition to college is a great time to remind young people to be careful and stay safe online."

Here are the top eight tips to keep your college-bound teenager safe online.

1. The Internet is forever -- think about future employers, including those coveted summer internships
Don't post anything online, including inappropriate photos, which would make a future employer think twice about hiring you. Good judgment is something employers look for, show that you have it.

2. Don't add your address to your Facebook profile
Keep your address private. Anyone who needs your address can get it from you directly.

3. Don't broadcast your location
Go ahead and check-in at your favorite coffee place and post photos of you and friends at a concert. Just do it sparingly. People don't need to know where you are all the time or when your dorm room or apartment might be empty.

4. Don't "friend" people you don't know
Be choosy when it comes to friending people on social media. Just because someone sends you a friend request doesn't mean you have to accept it -- especially if you have no idea who they are.

5. Guard your social security number
Your social security number is a winning lottery ticket to a fraudster. It is the key to stealing your identity and taking over your accounts. Keep your social security card locked away in a safe place. Memorize the number so you can minimize using the card itself. Question anyone who asks for your social security card. Employers, banks, credit card companies and the department of motor vehicles are some of the few legitimate entities who may need your social security number. Never give it out online or in email.