Identity Theft: Don’t Be a Victim

Posted by Kim Archer

April 23, 2009

by Paul Cameron

The target of identity theft is typically your bank and credit card accounts, social security number, and the various personal identification numbers needed to access those accounts. 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. Another good suggestion is to install identity theft software that is specifically designed to protect your privacy. Your first step is to use a password that’s hard to crack in order to keep your information safe. Make sure it’s a minimum of 8 to 10 characters long. You need to use a combination of letters and numbers. Make sure it’s not too simple to figure out, such as your kid’s name and birth date.

2. Trash: If it goes in the garbage, it must be completely unimportant. However, your garbage is a prime target of identity thieves, because it’s often a goldmine of valuable information that can be used for fraudulent purposes. This even includes unsolicited credit card applications, so make sure you shred everything before it goes out to the trash.

3. Mail: For many people, it would never even cross their mind to lock their mailbox. But for anyone who wants your identifying information, the mailbox is a prime attraction. Just consider the amount of mail you receive that includes personal financial information. 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. It’s not just the locker at the gym either, it’s also the one where you work. Use your own lock if you can so it’s harder for a thief to get hold of a duplicate key.

5. Wallet: Be protective of your wallet always. The purse or wallet of just about everyone has more than enough information for an identity thief to achieve his purposes. 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 information: Be cautious of giving out any personal details. 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.

About the Author:

These days, nobody is safe from identity theft. It is one of the fastest growing crimes internationally. And it can happen to you. Visit Identity Theft Protection to learn how to protect yourself.

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Identity Theft: Don’t Be a Victim

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