Identity Theft
How to protect yourself from identity theft.
What is Identify Theft?
Identity theft occurs when someone uses another person's personal information such as
name, Social Security number, driver's license number, credit card number or other identifying
information to take on that person's identity in order to commit fraud or other crimes.
How to Protect Yourself From Identity Theft
The following tips can help lower your risk of becoming a victim of identity theft.
- Protect your social security number (SSN). Do not carry your social security card or other cards that show your SSN. Read, "Identity Theft and your Social Security Number".
- Use caution when giving out your personal information. Scam artists "phish" for victims by pretending to be banks, stores, or government agencies. They do this over the phone, in emails, and in postal mail. Click her for more information about Phishing.
- Treat your trash carefully. Shred or destroy papers containing your personal information including credit card offers and convenience checks that you don't use.
- Protect your postal mail. Retrieve mail promptly. Discontinue delivery while out of town.
- Check your bills and bank statements. Open your credit card bills and bank statements right away. Check carefully for any unauthorized charges or withdrawals and report them immediately. Call if bills do not arrive on time. It may mean that someone has changed contact information to hide fraudulent charges.
- Check your credit reports. Review your credit report at least once a year. Check for changed addresses and fraudulent charges.
- Stop pre-approved credit offers. Pre-approved credit card offers are a target for identity thieves who steal your mail. Have your name removed from credit bureau marketing lists. Call toll free: 888-567-8688.
- Ask questions whenever you are asked whenever you are asked for personal information that seems inappropriate for the transaction. Ask how the information will be used and, if it will be shared. Ask how it will protected. If you are not satisfied with the answers, do not give your personal information.
- Protect your computer. Protect personal information on your computer by following security best practices.