How To Prevent Identity Theft
Due to the ease with which identity theft can be committed, the concept of how to prevent identity theft begins with the consumer. Even when law enforcement agencies catch up to addressing the problem, it will still be up to you to learn how to prevent identity theft. The world is too large, transactions are too quick and easy to make, and the volume of information passed back and forth is too dense for anyone to know how to prevent identity theft in all cases. Identity theft is a negative by-product of modern technology just like spam and computer viruses. So the big question is how to prevent identity theft and the answer starts with you. It's up to you to safeguard your personal information and it's up to you to report any illegal activity to the proper authorities and agencies. Unfortunately, no one is going to call you the minute someone starts opening accounts or making large purchases in your name. You have to apply some common sense on how to prevent identity theft. Here are some quick tips on how to prevent identity theft: 1. Don't leave wallets or purses unattended or in clear view for criminals to see in your vehicle. 2. Keep your bank checks in a safe place and destroy all check immediately upon closing the account. 3. Under no circumstances should you ever provide sensitive personal information on the phone including Social Security numbers, bank account numbers, and credit card numbers. 4. Keep all receipts and shred the receipts before tossing them in the trash particularly ATM, debit card, and credit card receipts. 5. Scrutinized each subscription and utility bill to ensure the charges are legitimately yours. 6. Commit your personal ID numbers and passwords to memory and never keep then in close proximity to credit cards. 7. Compile a list of each credit card or ID card in your possession. This will enable you to respond quickly in case you notice a lost or stolen credit card. You could also make copies of the cards. 8. Never provide sensitive personal financial information to people you don't trust and know regardless of who they claim to be. 9. Immediately report any checks that are stolen or lost. 10. Review bank statements carefully checking for unauthorized or suspicious activity and immediately report any suspicious activity to your banker. 11. Whenever possible take advantage of direct deposit. None of these preventive tactics guarantees that you won't become a victim of identity theft. But they will lower your overall risk - especially when used together. |
