How to Protect Yourself From Identity Theft: 10 Steps
Tuesday, 20 July 2010
Unless you have been living under a rock, you’re well aware that identity theft has become a major issue in recent years. It costs Americans alone, over $52 billion annually. You don’t have to be one of the many victims! The following is ten easy common sense suggestions on ways you can better protect yourself.
Be Alert for Telephone Scams
You need to understand that telephone scam artists are professionals at what they do. They’ve had years to protect their craft, so they know what works and what doesn’t. Never give out any personal information over the phone no matter how sweet, honest, legitimate and sincere they may sound.
Don’t Get Taken By Phishing Scams
The word phishing is used to describe techniques that are employed to extract information from you by way of email and online chat services. The most basic of them involve convincing you to click to a link or respond to a site that is set up to “appear to be” PayPal, a bank or credit card service.
Only Shop at Secure Websites
Online shopping can be as secure as shopping at your local mall, just as long as you know what to look out for. Before you shop on any site, make sure to check the bottom of your browser for a locked graphic. Another thing to look for to insure that a site is safe is https in the address bar. If there’s no secure connection, hackers can eavesdrop on your transactions.
Shred All Mail and Documents
Buy a good paper shredder and make it a policy to shred all mail and personal documents that you throw out. In fact if you have a fireplace it too can be used to destroy sensitive material that otherwise would be left sitting in your trash container. Trash diggers aren’t looking for junk anymore. They’re on the hunt for your personal information.
Keep Your Anti-Spyware and Anti-Virus Software Up to Date
A spyware program or computer virus that finds its way into your computer can can make your private information available to identity thieves. The best way to block this threat, is to use at least one anti-spyware program and one anti-virus program. Also make sure to keep them both up to date.
Research and Ask About Identity Theft Protection
When was the last time you asked your employer about what steps they are taking to safeguard employees personal data? Have you called your credit card company to find out if you will be held liable for fraudulent charges? What about asking your local bank manager about their anti-theft policies?
Guard Your Social Security Number
Increasingly today, more institutions and organizations are using social security numbers to identify and track members and clients. It’s great for them because it’s more simple and fool-proof. However; for you it’s not so great because it makes one of your more sensitive items of personal information vulnerable. Always ask for and consider other options.
Identity Theft Protection: See My Personal Recommendation Here
Check Your Credit Report Carefully
You’re entitled by law to one free copy of your credit report from each of the three major reporting agencies each year. You can even get them online. Rather than getting them all at once, consider checking one very four months. This way you have a better chance of detecting a problem much quicker.
Keep Your Important Documents Locked Up
The prices on small fire resistant personal safes have dropped significantly over the years. In fact you can now buy one that’s large enough to keep all your papers in at your local Walmart or Home Depot for as little as $50 now. Buy one and use it.
Guard Your Incoming and Outgoing Mail
If you live in a nicer, low crime neighborhood with steady police patrols, you are in fact more vulnerable to mail box raiders. They know that you feel secure and are less likely to take anti-theft measures. Install your own locking mail box or talk to your neighbors about having a group security mail box system installed.
