Changing your name? Learn how to do it safely without risking your identity. Discover essential steps to protect personal data and avoid fraud during a name change—plus how Avast Secure Identity can help.
Changing your name—whether due to marriage, divorce, or personal choice—is a significant life event. However, this process involves sharing sensitive personal information across various platforms, making it a potential target for identity theft. At Avast, we prioritize your digital security. Here's how you can navigate a name change securely and protect your identity throughout the process.
Why name changes can be risky
The name change process requires updating numerous documents and accounts, including your Social Security card, driver's license, bank accounts, and more. Each update involves sharing personal information, which can be intercepted if not handled carefully. Cybercriminals may exploit this period of transition to access your data and commit fraud.
Steps to securely change your name
- Handle the process personally
While third-party services offer to manage name changes for you, it's safer to handle the process yourself. Managing your own name change reduces the number of entities handling your personal information, minimizing exposure to potential breaches.
2. Update official documents promptly
Begin by updating your name on official documents:
- Social Security Administration (SSA): Update your Social Security card to reflect your new name.
- Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV): Change your name on your driver's license or state ID.
- Financial institutions: Inform your banks and credit card companies of your name change.
- Employers and insurance providers: Ensure your employer and health insurance provider have your updated information
Timely updates help prevent discrepancies that could be exploited by identity thieves.
3. Secure your mail
Unattended mail can be a goldmine for identity thieves. If you're moving, set up mail forwarding with the postal service and update your address with all relevant institutions to ensure you receive sensitive documents directly.
4. Monitor your financial accounts
Regularly review your bank and credit card statements for unauthorized transactions. Early detection of suspicious activity can prevent further unauthorized access.
- Change the name on your passport
If your name has changed because you are married and you own an ID issued in your new name, you do not need to submit proof of your name change. You must include the details of the marriage on the second page of Form DS-11 according to the US department of State. Learn more: Name Change for U.S. Passport
- Be cautious with your personal information
Avoid sharing personal details, such as your full name, birthdate, and address, on social media platforms. Cybercriminals can use this information to impersonate you or access your accounts.
Enhance your protection with Avast Secure Identity
Avast Secure Identity provides robust, all-in-one identity protection designed to keep your personal information safe—during a name change and beyond. With our comprehensive suite of services, you’ll have the tools and support you need to stay protected every step of the way.
- Real-time monitoring: We monitor your personal information across various platforms to detect unauthorized use.
- Alerts: Receive immediate notifications of suspicious activities involving your personal data.
- Support: Access to our support team to assist you in resolving identity theft issues.
By proactively leveraging Avast Secure Identity, you can navigate the name change process with confidence—knowing your information is continuously monitored and protected by trusted experts.
