Its an unfortunate fact but identity theft is on the rise.
ID theft is a crime that can be committed in many different ways – in a department store, at your local ATM, on the internet and even via phone.
One small slip-up from yourself and you could find yourself paying the cost for years to come as identity theft is a crime that has far-reaching and long-lasting effects.
For that reason you’ll want to avoid it like the plague so here are some tips on how to minimise the chances of you becoming the next id theft victim :
BUY A SHREDDER
Shred every document that you have that contains personal information, including receipts, address, statements, and credit card offers. Some statements even contain a blank check for you to use. Be extra careful if you share a house with others, even if they are friends or family, as they are the most common perpertrators of this crime.
KEEP YOUR SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER SAFE
Your Social Security Number (SSN) should be kept safe at all times, preferable somewhere secure in your house, and never in your purse or wallet.
Never give your number to anyone who doesn’t need it, especially when talking to strangers on the telephone.
If someone steals your SSN then they are one step away from being able to completely assume your identity.
NEVER WRITE YOUR PIN DOWN
Please don’t write your PIN on a piece of paper and then put it into your wallet. If you do then you probably deserve what you’ll get if your wallet and cards are then stolen.
STUDY BANK AND CREDIT CARD STATEMENTS REGULARLY
Examine your statements regularly and always question and report any strange activity immediately.
GET YOUR FREE CREDIT REPORT EVERY YEAR
The Credit Bureaus offer free credit reports every year. Take advantage of that offer and then read them thoroughly.
A credit report can be a good tool for spotting the signs of identity theft and the earlier you deal with it the better.
For more tips on avoiding identity theft you ought to visit my blog where I share more tips on avoiding identity theft.
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