Prevent Identity Theft - 10 Hot Tips!

The first way you can prevent identity theft from happening to you is to recognize just how vulnerable you are to what the FBI says is the fastest growing white-collar crime of the century. You should take all the precautions you can think of in terms of how you store your personal data, as well as who you allow to access it, to prevent identity theft.

Prevent Identity Theft - What the Experts Say

Government agencies that deal with identity thieves and that have studied this kind of criminal activity suggest taking the following measures to prevent identity theft.

1. Never give out your personal data, unless you know the person on the other end of the phone line or the Internet.
   
   
2. Do not click links in unsolicited e-mail. Type in the online address you know.
   
   
3. Shred or tear up documents and bills that contain your personal data before you throw them in the trash or office wastepaper bin.
   
   
4. Lock your home mailbox or rent a postal box so you can receive and send mail securely. (Tip: If you are often out of town, using a home mailbox is asking for trouble! Prevent identity theft by renting a P.O. box today!)
   
   
5. Store the personal data you keep in your home in safe, obscure place.
   
   
6. Protect your PC with Firewalls and Antivirus or Spyware programs.
   
   
7. Never use passwords that anyone can easily guess, such as your date of birth.
   
   
8. Avoid using your credit card in places where you have to let it out of your sight.
   
   
9. As soon as you even suspect identity thieves have targeted you, report it to your local police authorities or to the Federal Trade Commission at their toll-free number, 1-877-IDTHEFT.
   
   
10. Finally, always check your monthly bills for suspicious items. You can also get a free monthly credit report from these three bureaus to keep track of your spending activities and prevent identity theft.

Equifax
P.O. Box 740241
Atlanta, GA 30374-0241
800-525-6285

Experian
P.O. Box 2002
Allen, TX 75013
888-EXPERIAN (397-3742)

Trans Union
P.O. Box 1000
Chester, PA 19022
800-680-7289

Prevent Identity Theft by Securing Your Personal Data

Your personal data does not only include ID cards or your Social Security Number. It also includes your deposit slips and bank checks. The easiest way an identity thief can victimize you is by stealing your purse and using your checks.

Some may even try to sneak a peek over your shoulder at the bank or wherever you happen to be filling out a form that requires writing down specific identifying information. So being aware of your surroundings is another good way to prevent identity theft.