Preventing Identity Theft
Preventing Identity Theft
There are no fool proof measures to prevent identity fraud but there are several common sense steps one can take to protect themselves.
Yesterday I posted on identity theft and the many ways it is perpetrated.
As a police officer I have advised many a person, often too late, on how to protect themselves from identity theft. Here’s my advice to you:
Credit Reports
At least twice a year order and inspect your credit report, ensuring all information is accurate. Look for any accounts you did not open, unexplained debts, or inquiries you did not initiate.
Place a “fraud alert” on your credit reports. This tells creditors to follow certain procedures before they can open new accounts.
Passwords
Use alpha-numeric passwords. Example: Instead of “bob” use “b6ob6.”
Do not leave passwords written down anywhere where someone may find it. Especially not in your wallet.
Financial Information
At home shred all statements and papers not saved. Save all important information in a locked box or safe.
Carefully review your monthly statements every month.
Unwanted Solicitation / Marketing
Remove yourself from marketing lists by contacting the three major nationwide credit reporting agencies. [Equifax, Experian or Trans Union] Also contact the “Direct Marketing Association” to remove your name from their email lists.
Never give out personal information over the phone. Ask that your name be removed from their call list.
Verify who you are talking to by hanging up, looking up the number yourself and then calling them back. Know to whom you are speaking to.
Checkbooks
Do not put your social security number on checks. Ordered checks can be sent to your bank and not your home. The bank will release the books with proper ID.
Credit cards
Write the words “ASK 4 ID” or “SEE ID” on the back of the card and “ID” on the front. Do this instead of signing the card, use permanent black marker.
Photo copy both sides of all your credit cards in case you lose them. Lock them up in a safe place.
Trash
Watch what you throw away. Bank statements, credit card statements, personal information and receipts should be shredded. Cross-cut shredders are the best to use.
Click here to check you FREE annual credit report.
For more information on identity theft see FTC.gov.
