Protect Your Identity From Being Stolen

Posted on December 28 2009

During this busy time, it is easy to forget that there are people out there who are trying to steal an identity. This is not the time to let your guard down, but to review your process on how you are protecting your identity from being stolen. Here are a few rules that will help you keep your identity safe.

1. Never share confidential or financial information. – Don’t write down your social security number, account numbers, phone number, PIN numbers, or passwords (keep safe if you can’t memorize them). Monitor where/when you write this information and where you send it if it is required on forms, checks, or other documents. Send things in the mail directly from the post office if this information needs to be included on what is mailed.
2. Shred sensitive information. – Never throw statements, credit cards, or other financial information in the trash without shredding it first. Some thieves go through people’s trash looking for information they can use to steal one’s identity.
3. Check over statements. – Check over the items on the statements that you receive to watch for any unexpected entries listed. This could be the first indication that someone has stolen your information.
4. Check your credit report. – Like checking your statements, look over your credit report for any entries that you don’t recognize. You can get one free credit report from each credit bureau each year (this could mean one credit report every 4 months if you get a report from one at a time). You can get your free credit report at http://www.annualcreditreport.com. Remember to continue looking at your credit. Looking at it once and then forgetting about it won’t help you. You must continually check it as things are always changing.
5. Secure important documents. – Don’t carry your passport, social security card, insurance details, or even address with you unless you need to – keep them securely at home. If your purse or wallet is stolen, you could be handing the thieves your identity as well as your cash. If things are stolen, report it right away to all necessary companies/individuals.
6. Watch your mail. – Take note that things are received when you send them in the mail and that you receive all expected mail. Consider sending documents containing identifying information directly from the post office instead of your own mailbox. Another idea is to get and use a P.O. Box. This will prevent anyone from taking your mail and can protect against a thief trying to connect your name and physical address.
7. Be suspicious of unsolicited calls, e-mails, or other suspicious mailings. – Never give your personal information to someone over the phone, by e-mail, or mail. Verify any request for sensitive information by speaking with the company/organization that is requesting it directly (which means YOU call or visit them).

Lisa Pribula, FLCS Credit Counselor