Preventing Identity Theft

The Federal Data Trade Commission Identity Thief Clearinghouse, reports that the four main types of identity thief are: credit card, bank, communication services and fraudulent loans.

Over half the victims of identity theft involves credit card use. Usually someone opens an account in another person’s name or uses their credit card account without permission.

Bank fraud involves opening a checking or savings account in someone else’s name, or writing a check on another persons account. Often the checks are stolen.

About one fourth of identity thief involves opening a cell phone or utility account using the personal information of someone else.

Fraudulent loans involve obtaining a loan, usually an installment contract, using another persons identity.

Identity thief can be prevented by following the following steps:

Store all documents with personal information in a safe place. If you don’t want to keep it, then shred before putting in the trash, especially pre-approved applications.

Don’t display personal information on public documents.

Avoid putting your social security number on your drivers license. Don’t have phone numbers pre-printed on checks. Often the thief already has information about you and they’re just looking for one more piece of information that leads to you.

Make sure your mail is delivered to a secure place. If you are in an isolated area consider placing a lock on the box. Arrange for someone else to get your mail if you are out of town.

Check out any change in mail delivery patterns. Thieves sometimes complete change of address forms for their victims.

Open all credit card, installment and mortgage loan statements. Know what your balances are and what charges you’ve made. Report any suspicious charges or activity.

Know your rights.

Be cautious when buying over the phone or internet.

The above list does not cover everything a person can do to safeguard their credit, but if you follow these steps you are off to a good start.

Margaret Norton, a Personal Life Coach/Writer/Speaker, resides in St. Peters, Missouri,

(photo credit: piper)

April 10th, 2009 by admin | Posted in Protecting Yourself | (0)