WalletHub.Com has released its annual survey regarding the states most vulnerable to identity theft.

As a cyber-oriented culture, it’s natural to wonder whether and how a person’s daily habits assist hackers in stealing personal information. Accordingly, the site consulted a panel of cybersecurity professors for answers to such questions and offer advice on how to safeguard data against cybercriminals. Items asked include:

• How should consumers choose among third-party providers  offering services to protect their identity and personal data?
• What can individuals do to guard against identity theft?
• Is the recent expansion of social media facilitating identity thefts?
• Should the federal government intervene to establish a clear process for victims of identity theft looking to clear their name?

Dr. Rick Forno, CSEE’s Cybersecurity Graduate Program Director and Assistant Director of UMBC’s Center for Cybersecurity, was one of those invited to offer comments on this ongoing problem facing Internet users.