How to Prevent Identity Theft
With each passing year the number of victims of identity theft climbs, and most people believe there is nothing that can be done to stop it. Tougher and tougher legislation passes almost every year and still the epidemic grows. Although the statistics are daunting, there are several things you can do to prevent becoming the next ID theft victim.
For starters, don't give out any personal information to anyone with whom you don't initiate contact. When you do choose to give out personal information, surrender only what is necessary; don't volunteer anything. This goes for the web as well as the phone and mail.
Online, never click on links sent in unsolicited emails. Instead, type the web address you know into your browser address bar. Making use of firewalls, anti-spyware, and anti-virus software will further protect you from ID theft. Visit www.OnGuardOnline.gov for more information on these tools. Avoid using obvious passwords like your name, birth date, or social security number. Also, look for the initials "https" at the beginning of the website address; the "s" stands for "secure." You should never enter personal information like a social security number or credit card number on a webpage that is not secure.
When you are out, know who is handling your credit card, and what they are doing with it. And don't carry too many cards with identifying information on them -- leave your Social Security card (and most of your credit cards) at home.
Speaking of home, be sure to keep personal information securely locked up -- or better yet, get a safe deposit box. Always, always know where your wallet and checkbook are. And this may sound obvious, but don't forget to lock your house.
Another smart idea is to buy a shredder. Anything with your name or personal information gets shredded.
Unlisted phone numbers and P.O. boxes are more ways to keep your guard up. And last but not least: Don't keep identifying information in your car; don't leave your laptop sitting in your unoccupied vehicle.
Thieves, like water, follow the path of least resistance. So, if you follow these simple prevention guidelines, you will become a much more difficult target for an identity thief. The crooks move on, and you get to continue enjoying your good credit.