Preventing Identity TheftAlas, it's not possible to prevent identity theft and credit fraud entirely. However, by managing your personal information carefully, and with a full understanding of its importance, you can substantially reduce
likelihood that it will happen to you. The following tips show you how to prevent identity theft.
One Step Up on Identity Thieves
Be careful about giving out personal information. Whether on
phone, by mail, or on
Internet, prevent identity theft and never give anyone your card number, Social Security number, or other personal information for a purpose you don't understand. Ask to use other types of identifiers when possible, and don't carry your SSN card. Be sure to keep it in a secure place.
Protect your mail. To stop a thief from obtaining personal information( stealing identity) about you by going through your through trash or recycling bin, tear or shred your charge receipts, credit applications, insurance forms, bank statements, expired charge cards, and preapproved credit offers. Deposit outgoing mail in post office collection boxes or at your local post office. Remember to remove mail from your mailbox after it's delivered. If you plan to go away, call
U.S. Postal Service at 800-275-8777 and request a vacation hold.
Guard your credit cards. Minimize
information and
number of cards you carry in your wallet. If you lose a card, contact
identity theft protection division of
credit card company. If you apply for a new credit card and it doesn't arrive in a reasonable period, contact
issuer. Watch cashiers when you give them your card for a purchase. Also, when you receive a new card, sign it in permanent ink and activate it immediately.
Pay attention to billing cycles. Contact creditors immediately if your bills arrive late. A missing bill could mean an identity thief has taken over your credit card account and changed your billing address.
Safeguard personal information in your home. Especially if you are having service work done in your home, employ outside help, or have a roommate.