Preventing Identity Theft

Identity theft is big business and a big hassle should you be victimized! It can take years to fix problems and clear your credit report.

Here are some very simple steps to help keep your identity safe.

Offline (and in general):

• Shred documents before throwing them away - err on the side of paranoia.

• NEVER give anyone your Social Security number unless they absolutely need it (not just say they need it). Common organizations that claim they need it include hospitals and doctors (none of their business!), lawyers (why??), and credit card companies. Credit card companies only need your SS# for a credit check - DEMAND they remove it from their files after your card is issued. If you don't live in the US, protect your National ID or Passport number as discussed above.
  

• Your birthday is your business - don't give it out.

• Your phone number is yours - give it to people you want to have call and no one else. "Toys R Us" asked me for my phone number yesterday - they didn't get it.

• Beware of people calling and asking for information.

• If an offer looks to good to be true - it is!

• Check your credit report occasionally for odd/suspicious entries.

• Actually read your credit card bill. Unknown charges, even very minor, are a red flag. This can be a tough one to check when a couple uses the same credit card.

Online:

• NEVER give anyone your password or other "private" information. If they were legit, they wouldn't ask!

• If in doubt about an online request, call them on the phone. Don't trust the phone number provided - look it up yourself.

• Take basic computer security steps - run anti-virus, anti-spyware and a personal firewall, have a good password, take the computer offline/turn it off when not using it for extended periods of time.

Remember, it's not paranoia when people ARE out to get you, and they are!