Identity Theft is one of the fastest growing crimes in America. Thieves are looking to steal your name, address, social security and driver's license numbers, along with your credit card and bank account information. They'll steal it from your purses and wallets, from your mailbox and garbage, even buy or steal your info from restaurants, hotels, stores and banks. You may even be giving it to them directly from your e-mail account (phishing). The good news is that you can help prevent identity theft and months or possibly years of frustration.
Burn or shred, with a cross shredder, any mail or financial papers with your personal information on it. Never recycle them
Call 1-888-5OPTOUT and ask to stop credit card companies from sending pre-approved credit card applications to your house.
Ask your credit card company to stop sending "convenience checks". They are ticking identity theft time bombs.
You are entitled to one free credit report per year. Get one as soon as possible and review it carefully.
Order a credit report a month or more before making a big purchase or apply for credit to make sure there are no suprises in your credit history. You can order from any of the three major credit reporting agencies. Equifax: 1-800-685-1111, Experian: 1-888-EXPERIAN (397-3742), Trans Union: 1-800-916-8800
Question companies that ask for personal information, such as your phone number at a checkout line.
Delete any email that asks for unsolicited personal information including passwords. Many emails and internet pages look exactly like the real thing, even with fake padlocks to appear secure. If you did not initiate the communication. Do not provide info.
Never provide your password over the phone or by email to an unsolicited
Hang up on telemarketers looking for, or trying to "confirm" personal information
Limit the number of credit cards you hold and be sure to check the statements carefully each month.
Save all bank records and stay organized with your personal info.
Identity Theft is one of the fastest growing crimes in America. Thieves are looking to steal your name, address, social security and driver's license numbers, along with your credit card and bank account information. They'll steal it from your purses and wallets, from your mailbox and garbage, even buy or steal your info from restaurants, hotels, stores and banks. You may even be giving it to them directly from your e-mail account (phishing). The good news is that you can help prevent identity theft and months or possibly years of frustration.
