With the number of identity thefts reported skyrocketing each year over the last decade, I thought I would share some tips consumers can follow to help ensure that their personal identity remains safe from id thieves.
It's important to note that there is no way to completely prevent identity theft, but by following the tips laid out in this post, you can do everything possible to lessen your exposure to this type of fraud.
1. Protect Your Social Security Number
One of the most common mistakes consumers make is carrying their social security card in their wallet or purse. There really is no reason to carry your SSN card these days, so make sure to keep it in a safe place at home. Also make sure that you do not have your social security number printed on check blanks.
2. Reduce the number of credit and debit cards you carry
The less you carry, the lesser your chances are of one of them being exposed. A lot of people recommend not using debit cards because of the potential losses to your checking account, since with a credit card you are only responsible for the first $50 or unauthorized charges in most cases.
3. Shred documents that contain personal information
Any documents that include sensitive information such as account numbers, social security numbers, mother's maiden name or anything else you don't want in the wrong hands should be shredded in a cross cut shredder to help prevent "dumpster diving".
4. Opt out of solicitation lists
If you are anything like me, it doesn't take long for all the pre-screened credit offers to stack up in my "shred box" leaving me exposed to potential identity theft. You can call 888-567-8688 and have your name removed from the solicitation list which will dramatically decrease the amount of junk mail you receive.
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