How To Prevent Identity Theft
It’s a disturbing thought that identity thieves out there might be able to access all your private information. This allows him or her to access even your bank accounts, mail, and credit cards. You need to be extra careful so you won’t fall victim to them. Here are some effective measures on how to prevent identity theft.
Protecting Your Snailmail
Empty your home mailbox promptly, as soon as the postman fills it. If you suddenly stop getting mail, call up the post office quickly. Sometimes, thieves forge your signature, then your mail will be forwarded to another place, providing them with information that can let them apply for credit while using your name.
When disposing of your bank statements, destroy them completely by putting them through a shredder, before dumping them in the trash. Some identity thieves use trashed bank statements to access vital information. Loan applications and credit card receipts should be properly disposed, too.
If you can, sign up for “online statements” only, so no bank account information will be sent to your mail.
Credit Card And ATM Safety
Sign your credit card or debit card on the back. Sometimes, when there’s no signature, you risk an unauthorized use. To protect your signature, cover it with a piece of transparent tape.
When you renew your credit card or debit card, make sure you destroy the expired card immediately.
If your credit card, ATM or debit card is stolen, report it immediately.
Don’t write personal checks to people you’re not acquainted with. Cash, a money order or a bank draft are more advisable. Personal checks contain your bank routing number and your bank account number, and using these, anyone can simply pull out funds from your account.
Internet And Computer Precautions
Don’t use computers in public places (work places, public libraries, Internet cafes) when accessing credit cards, bank accounts or applying for credit cards. The passwords and user IDs you use can be stored on the PC as cookies, even after you log out. If it’s an emergency, and you must access your bank account in a public area, clear the stored cookies before logging out.
When not in use, shut down your home computer, or put it to “sleep” mode. Openly-connected PCs can be accessed by hackers when left on standby.
Update your computer. Spyware and keylogger programs can get passwords and sensitive data. Update your anti-spyware, anti-virus and firewall. Also, don’t enter suspicious websites. Don’t click pop-ups.
Protecting Your Personal Numbers
Be careful with your PIN (Personal Identification) numbers. Choose good, strong PINs that no one will guess. Try to memorize them, instead of writing them down. If you do write them down, don’t leave the list lying anywhere. Don’t write them on your ATM card and don’t place them in your purse or wallet.
Be cautious when giving out your national insurance number or social security number. If an identity thief gets it, loan and credit applications are easier. Ask first how they’re going to be used and how they’ll be protected, before giving out these personal numbers to other people. Also, don’t carry around your social security ID all the time, except when you really need to use it.
Identity theft brings much inconvenience and trouble to people because of its shameful schemes. Don’t fall victim to these identity thieves, and always be vigilant with your personal information. By doing this, you’ll always avoid nasty identity theft scams.