 TITLE: 5 Ways Gen Z Is Putting Itself at Risk for Identity Theft CONTENT: 1\\. Sharing Personal Information With Strangers\n-----------------------------------------------\nWhen you or your child is gaming online, it's easy to start to feel like you know someone. You could be interacting with strangers all over the globe. Multiplayer games and online universes aren't just about on-screen interactions, either. A good headset gives instant opportunity to talk to other players.\nVideo game conversations can lull you into a sense of complacency about how well you know your fellow players—and you might be tempted to share personal information about your real name, where you live and other parts of your life. This is one way online scammers can learn about you and use that information to steal your identity.\nIf you're a parent, do you know who your child interacts with online? Pay attention to where your children hang out online. You don't need to interrogate them, but show a friendly interest in what they're doing and how it works, and they might be willing to be open with you.\n**How to reduce your risk:** Don't share personal information with people online. Full stop. While you can enjoy your time meeting interesting people, you don't want to share personal information. Whether it's credit card information, your name or the name of your favorite pet, keep it to yourself. As a parent, make sure you talk to your child about the importance of privacy and keeping personal information to themselves. END