In 2008 nearly 10 million people were victims of identity theft. Each year this number increases. It is important for consumers to stay one step ahead of criminals who are intent on stealing your identity. To do so, there are a few precautions you can take to minimize your risk of becoming a victim.
- Criminals can get a lot of information from your trash. When you throw something away, think of what information is contained on it and whether a thief could use it to their advantage. Addresses, phone numbers, social security numbers, birthdates, names and account numbers are among the items that can be used. Before throwing it away, shred it. Shredders are inexpensive and available at any super store.
- Be wary of giving your personal information to someone. A thief will impersonate a valid company and try to entice you to give information. On the telephone this could be someone calling you to verify information. On the Internet this could be a link impersonating a valid site trying to fool you into entering information. This is also called phishing. Remember that your account representatives already have the information so be wary about releasing any information. When using the Internet do not open any attachments or use embedded links. Instead, go directly to the site you want.
- Check your credit reports regularly. When you monitor your reports you can quickly see if there are any errors that need to be addressed. Some errors may be simple issues that can be cleared up but if you see opened accounts that you are not aware of you may have had your identity stolen.
- Make sure you get your bills on time. If you do not get a bill one month, check your statements carefully. Thieves may steal mail and have access to your statement and account numbers. If possible, go paperless and get your statement online.
- Be smart about your passwords that are used. Do not use your maiden name, birthdays, anniversaries or anything that is easily guessed. Instead, use long passwords that have no relation to your personal life. Use a combination of letters and numbers and use capital as well as lower case letters. For your ATM pin number use something that is not easily guessed. Change your passwords regularly.
- Do not give out your social security number unless necessary. Very few people need it. Ask why someone needs this information before giving it out.
If you adhere to some simple precautions you should be able to protect yourself from identity theft. Thieves will prey on those who are easy marks. So, the more difficult you make it for a criminal, the less likely you will become a victim.
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