Identity theft crimes are becoming more prevalent in today's society. More and more people are becoming victims, discovering that their personal and financial information is being used by someone else. Here are some simple steps on how you can prevent identity theft.
Tip #1: Keep your private information private.
Try to avoid giving out any of your personal/financial information as much as possible. Never reveal your social security number to anyone unless it's an absolute emergency or is truly required to carry out some function. Instead, only be willing to use the last four digits of your social security number as means of verifying who you are. Note that there are many companies who are already employing this method as means for identity …show more content…
Moreover, make sure your bills actually arrive since many identity theft thieves are known to steal your mail in order to gain access to your personal information. It is also recommended to routinely order your credit reports. Note that the Federal Trade Commission launched a website (http://www.annualcreditreport.com) where all consumers can get a free copy of their credit reports. If you find any discrepancy on your credit report, inform the respective credit bureau immediately.
Tip#5: Make copies of your important personal and financial documents.
If your purse or wallet gets stolen, it's helpful to have copies of everything in it so you can quickly recall all the items that need to be cancelled. It's better though to not carry your social security card in your purse, and have your social security number memorized.
Tip#6: Be informed and updated on identity theft scams.
Being informed and updated on identity theft scams can help you avoid becoming a victim. Note that the internet is not the only place where thieves can steal your personal information. Thieves even install equipment in ATM machines that can steal ATM cards and pin numbers. It's better then to trust your instincts, check the card reader or just use ATM machines located in banks.
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Tip #1: Keep your private information private.
Try to avoid giving out any of your personal/financial information as much as possible. Never reveal your social security number to anyone unless it's an absolute emergency or is truly required to carry out some function. Instead, only be willing to use the last four digits of your social security number as means of verifying who you are. Note that there are many companies who are already employing this method as means for identity …show more content…
Moreover, make sure your bills actually arrive since many identity theft thieves are known to steal your mail in order to gain access to your personal information. It is also recommended to routinely order your credit reports. Note that the Federal Trade Commission launched a website (http://www.annualcreditreport.com) where all consumers can get a free copy of their credit reports. If you find any discrepancy on your credit report, inform the respective credit bureau immediately.
Tip#5: Make copies of your important personal and financial documents.
If your purse or wallet gets stolen, it's helpful to have copies of everything in it so you can quickly recall all the items that need to be cancelled. It's better though to not carry your social security card in your purse, and have your social security number memorized.
Tip#6: Be informed and updated on identity theft scams.
Being informed and updated on identity theft scams can help you avoid becoming a victim. Note that the internet is not the only place where thieves can steal your personal information. Thieves even install equipment in ATM machines that can steal ATM cards and pin numbers. It's better then to trust your instincts, check the card reader or just use ATM machines located in banks.
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