Prevent Identity Theft - You can never be guaranteed that you will never be a victim, but you can minimize your risk. Managing
your personal information cautiously and with an awareness of the identity theft. Avoid giving out personal information
on the phone, through the mail or on the Internet unless you are sure you know who you're dealing with. Identity thieves usually
pose as representatives of banks or Internet service providers and try to get you to reveal your valuable information. Before
you share personal information be sure you are dealing with a legitimate organization. If you are unsure about an online communication
check the organization website by typing its URL in the address line. Most large companies post alerts on their sites when they
are aware of a scam.when their name is used improperly. Or call customer service using the number listed on your account statement
or in the telephone book.
Here are some valuable tips to prevent identity theft
Carry only the identification and the number of credit and debit cards
that you'll actually use.
Do not place passwords on your credit card, bank and phone accounts. When choosing a password avoid using
obvious information like your mother's maiden name, your birth date, the last four digits of your SSN or your phone number,
or a series of consecutive numbers
Ask about security procedures in your workplace, doctor's offices or other institutions that collect
personally identifying information. Find out who has access to your personal information and verify that it is handled securely and
how what are their disposal procedures. Find out if your information will be shared with anyone else.
Give your SSN only when absolutely
necessary. Ask if you can use other types of identification when possible.
Pay attention to your billing cycles. A missing
bill could mean an identity thief has gotten their hands on it
Be wary of promotional scams or phony offers to get you to give
them your personal information.
Keep your purse or wallet in a safe place at work.
When reordering checks pick them up at the bank
instead of having them sent to your mailbox.
Also get an up to date credit report.
