The Center for Identity at The University of Texas at Austin (UTCID), which is directed by Cockrell School of Engineering professor Suzanne Barber, has launched IDWise, a state-funded online resource and one-stop-shop for consumer-friendly tips, articles, games and videos on how to manage and secure personal information for individuals, businesses and families.
Completely free, IDWise is a resource designed to educate those most at risk for identity theft: children and parents, older adults, small businesses, veterans and active-duty service members. Fueled by innovative research, support from the Texas Legislature and contributions from UTCID’s partners, IDWise takes a novel approach to identity theft prevention, uniting practical advice with entertaining and relevant content tailored to address the top concerns of these at-risk audiences.
“We are working to reduce instances of identity theft and data breach around the world by educating organizations and consumers about what they can do to protect themselves,” said Barber, UTCID director and a professor in the Cockrell School’s Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering. “Smarter citizens and businesses can help prevent millions of dollars in lost income, fraudulent costs, wasted time and reputation damage.”
“I’m proud to be a part of UTCID’s efforts and the launch of IDWise,” said Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts Susan Combs, a member of UTCID’s advisory board and head of the Child ID Task Force. “As Texas’ CFO, I can tell you that this is a daily concern to many Texans, and this unique resource is crucial to helping folks in Texas and all over the country who face the threat of identity theft every day.”
UT Austin established UTCID to serve as a center of excellence for identity management, privacy and security. The research and educational endeavors of the center are breaking new ground to prepare its members to anticipate and mitigate current and future identity threats.
UTCID’s research is multidisciplinary, bringing together experts from across the university, including faculty from the Cockrell School’s Departments of Electrical and Computer Engineering, and Biomedical Engineering.
