Tips to Help You Prevent Identity Theft
10.2.2009 in Uncategorized by Author
Most identity thieves are targeting your social security number, your bank account, credit card information and all the corresponding PINs and passwords. A person intent on stealing your identity is hard to thwart. Nevertheless, there’s still lots you can do to protect yourself.
Keep the following tips in mind if you want to make sure you’re as protected as you can be.
1. Computer: It’s not difficult for a professional to hack into your computer system from a distance. Software that prevents viruses and software from attacking your computer is crucial to your safety. And don’t forget a firewall. As well, identity theft software is becoming increasingly popular among people who are nervous about their privacy. A basic strategy is to use a strong password to protect your data. It shouldn’t be any less than 8 characters, preferably 10 or more. Both numbers and letters should be part of it. Make sure it’s not too simple to figure out, such as your kid’s name and birth date.
2. Trash: If you throw it away, no doubt you think it doesn’t have any value. But the fact is that thieves often dig through trash cans to obtain any kind of personal details that can be used to assume your identity. Major targets are those credit card solicitation letters. It’s critical that these are completely destroyed before they leave your house.
3. Mail: For many people, it would never even cross their mind to lock their mailbox. However, your mailbox is a magnet for anyone who wants to get your personal details. Think about all the financial documents that are sent to your home via the mail. Your credit card and bank statements alone are all a thief needs.
4. Lockers: If you’re serious about identity theft protection, any place you store your handbag or wallet needs to be locked securely. This means the locker at your fitness club or at your place of work. When you use your own lock instead of one provided by the facility, the thief won’t have access to the extra key.
5. Wallet: Be protective of your wallet always. For many people, their wallet or handbag contains all the information an identity thief needs to facilitate his crime. This means your bank card, checkbook and credit cards, as well as the personal identification numbers you have stored (which you’re not supposed to).
6. Personal and financial information: Always be wary of divulging any details of your personal finances. Sometimes you’ll get a request for personal information that appears to be from a company that you deal with. In reality, it could just as easily be an identity thief impersonating an employee of that organization. This can happen either over the phone or on the internet. Giving out details of confidential matters can just be second nature in these cases.
Identity theft is a growing problem, and many people are worried that they will become victim to this faceless crime. That’s why it’s so important to learn some tips on how to protect yourself from identity theft. Learn more about how to protect yourself at Identity Theft Facts.