For many people in Singapore and other Asian countries, theft of their identities is the biggest worry they face, according to the latest Security Index. Eighty percent of people who were surveyed in Singapore along are worried about others stealing their identities or using their credit cards without their knowledge. Hong Kong and Malaysia had similar worries.
The Security Index is based on local fears about security. A low number indicates that people have little fear, whereas a high number indicates a lot. If there's no fear, the Security Index would be zero, however, in Singapore and Hong Kong, the index is a startling 179, with Malaysia not far behind at 174. This is a lot higher than countries like New Zealand or Australia, which are below 150 on this scale.
Despite the fact that many people in the area are quite concerned about the security of their identities and finances, a fifth of them still don't take basic security measures, like destroying the receipts from an ATM. This shows a degree of complacency that doesn't match with their worries. Many people are used to trusting their banks and don't realize all the vectors through which their identities could be stolen. Identity theft could occur by someone going through the garbage, by trying to spot information while looking over someone's shoulder while they're on the computer, or by stealing mail.
There are some basic precautions that can be taken by people in Asia or elsewhere to avoid the problem of identity theft. Tearing up or shredding personal documents, like credit card statements and bills, can help. However, securing the mailbox and guarding personal identification records are also important. People who want to avoid identity theft should also keep close track of their credit cards, ATM and gas station receipts, never give any personal information without finding out the reason for a call or email about that information, and take their names off marketing lists. It's also important to go over credit card statement very carefully to look for any anomalies that might indicate unauthorized use of the card. In countries that have a credit reporting system, citizens should view that report regularly. This is another place that illegal use of someone's information can show up.
Identity theft is a growing problem, in Asia and throughout the world. Simple precautions can do a lot to reduce the incidence of this crime, but can't prevent it entirely. Anyone who's worried about losing their information to someone unscrupulous, as are the inhabitants of Singapore and Hong Kong, should take steps to safeguard that information.
Also people should reach out to others they know online as well. Older, experienced online people need to help younger people just entering the online world to protect themselves as well as their computers. Printing out helpful articles and sharing copies with others, emailing copies as well are other ways to reach out. And bookmarking helpful sites and blogs and subscribing to them to stay advised of alerts and updates regarding identity theft issues and topics are also great ideas.
Asia is one of the continents that offer nice and attractive places that many travelers and tourists from the other parts of the world like to visit. For individuals who plan to become one of the expats in Asia, it is important that they first gather information about the countries that they like to visit. They can accomplish this task by referring to some websites or web pages that feature culture, history, politics, and economy in Asian nations. By referring to web pages, travelers will have ideas about the nations that they want to see. In addition, these websites are very helpful to them since they know what to expect when they travel to Asian countries.
However, to ensure their safety and security, people are advised to know which web sites are reliable or not. In this matter, it is important that they ask for advice from travelers who frequently visit Asian nations regarding web pages that provide true information about the countries. For those who are eager to know more about the countries, there are some of the websites that people can always check out like Orient Express, Asiaville, and A Guide to Asia. Moreover, another helpful electronic resource that they can view and visit is Expat Planner.
Orient Express and Asiaville
Travelers, retirees, and investors who want to spend some time in Asian countries like Thailand, Singapore, Japan, and Vietnam, should visit the site of Orient Express. It discusses important issues in these nations like job opportunities and cost of living. The site also offers knowledge on lifestyle and culture in the Philippines, Laos, Taiwan, and China. In addition, expats in Asia can also converse or communicate with Asian people through its forums. On the other hand, for people who like to know the leisure or recreational activities that they can try to do in Asian nations, they can view the website of Asiaville. This resource also offers special and useful information on the economic status of countries that they like to visit. Like Orient Express and Asiaville can help expats in the continent learn about the economic opportunities available to them.
A Guide to Asia and Expat Planner
When it comes to travel tips, one of the websites to check out is A Guide to Asia. Aside from travel tips, the website also provides extensive overviews of history and way of living in some Asian nations including Myanmar, Singapore, and Vietnam. Additionally, it can also be used as resource by expats in Asia who want to stay for a long time in Indonesia, China, and Hong Kong. Moreover, with the use of this electronic resource, people can also have ideas about the attractive sites and spots in the continent. Meanwhile, for American people who want to visit Asian countries and who have problems with managing their finances, they can view Expat Planner. This web reference provides them with efficient and reliable financial plans that they can use during their stay in Asia. Furthermore, it also discusses social issues in the place like tax systems, cost of living, and ways for accumulating assets.
Both Bernard Pragides & Alex Gwen Thomson are contributors for EditorialToday. The above articles have been edited for relevancy and timeliness. All write-ups, reviews, tips and guides published by EditorialToday.com and its partners or affiliates are for informational purposes only. They should not be used for any legal or any other type of advice. We do not endorse any author, contributor, writer or article posted by our team.
Bernard Pragides has sinced written about articles on various topics from Computers and The Internet, Pearls and Credit Cards. Author & internet entrepreneur Bernard Pragides offers expert advice & tips regarding identity theft. Learn more about identity theft & fraud by visiting his