Identity Theft Prevention
How to Prevent Identity Theft?
Today, it's more important than ever that individuals protect themselves against identity theft. It can takes months—or even up to a year—to even realize that you're a victim, so learning to prevent identity theft is especially critical. In this article, we cover some of the best ways to combat against even the common, "low-tech" methods of this increasingly common crime. (High-tech ID theft is another story.)
Keep an Ear Out for Telephone Scams
The phone rings and… you're a winner! And all you need to do is pay a small shipping fee with your credit card. Remember, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. So, NEVER give credit card or personal information out over the phone. In legitimate contests, winners don't pay fees.
Stay Vigilant at Work
A co-worker can steal your employment records—or bribe someone with access to them. Also, criminals can hack into your company's system, like those who call claiming to be Tech Support and asking for your password. As you've heard before, you should NEVER give your password out—especially over the phone.
Home, Safe Home
It may seem convenient and a time-saver to have your driver's license number printed on your checks, and it is… for the CRIMINALS! You're just giving out additional information making it easer for them to steal your identity. So, the less information you include on your checks, the better.
Watch That Mailbox, Too
Why would anyone steal your mail? Well, they can take your pre-approved credit card offers and open accounts in your name. Then, they can file a Change of Address and have the account information sent there, so you're not even aware of it. You need to keep track of your credit report at all times, shred documents with information about you and even opt out of pre-approved credit offers.
Stealing Trash? Seriously?
Criminals will actually go through your garbage to find your bank statements, checks, credit card numbers—or any record listing you name, address or telephone number. Your strategy here is to shred, shred, SHRED anything containing even basic information about you.
ID Theft, Right Over Your Shoulder
An identity thief can stand close enough to you to see your ATM or credit card number punched in. Or, they might just be able to hear you give out a credit card number to a business. It's important to always be aware of your surroundings—and all the people near you—when you use sensitive information in public. On the phone, try to speak quietly when giving out credit card numbers.
A serious solution: LifeLock—the industry leader in proactive identity theft.
In addition to all the proactive steps outlined above, there's another powerful way you can help protect your identity today. LifeLock, the industry leader in proactive identity theft protection, offers a solution starting from just $9.99 a month that, through a variety of methods, actually prevents your identity from being stolen BEFORE it happens—and the service is guaranteed up to $1 Million (with Ultimate Plus membership).