Tips To Avoid Identity Theft

Make Avoiding Identity Theft A Priority

• When ordering new checks, do not include your street address and telephone number on the checks. And instead of showing your complete first name, middle initial, and last name on the checks, change it to all initials plus your last name only, to prevent anyone from trying to forge your name on checks.


• Never send out a check with your Social Security Number (or Canadian Social Insurance Number) written on it.


• Always order new checks directly from your bank or their designated check supplier, and not online.


• When paying bills by check, especially credit card bills, only write the last four digits of your account number, never the entire number.


• Never carry your checkbook or bank account passbook with you. Keep them at home and only carry them when paying bills or making transactions at the bank.


• Make photocopies of your driver's license, proof of insurance, and credit cards for safekeeping. Also, photocopy other important information you might carry with you. Always keep your Social Security Card at home and not in your wallet.


• Memorize your ATM number. Don't carry the PIN number on a slip of paper in your wallet. An identity thief could easily snap a picture of the number with a cell phone camera while you're looking at it.


• Never throw unwanted mail into the trash. Purchase an inexpensive paper shredder and shred all mail with your name, address, and any personal information on it, even the envelopes. It's especially important to destroy any insurance and credit card offers you receive in the mail.


• Never leave mail in your mailbox for thieves to steal. Anyone can remove mail from your box and use the information it contains.


• Delete any emails from sources you don't recognize. If you receive emails that claim to be from PayPal or a bank, or any other institution with whom you do business, stating that your account has been cancelled or needs attention, do NOT click on the links in the email. Delete the email and access your online account as you normally would to check out the information.


• Obtain your free annual credit report from each of the three credit agencies: Equifax, Experian, and Trans Union. Check your up-to-date credit report to see that no new accounts have been opened and that all the credit information is accurate. If not, contact each credit agency immediately and report the problems.


• If your wallet with your credit cards is ever stolen, contact the bank and credit card companies immediately.


• To avoid identity theft on the computer when shopping online, make sure the website is reputable and its order page is encrypted for your protection. Look for the padlock icon in the corner of the browser window, and the URL should begin with "https://" to indicate a secure web page.


• Never divulge personal information or your Social Security Number (or Canadian Social Insurance Number) to anyone, either online or offline.


• Review tips to avoid identity theft and be sure to put them into practice.

Copyright © 2006-2012 by Donald R Bell - All Rights Reserved Worldwide