How to Protect Yourself from Identity Theft

Identity theft is becoming more and more common. Thieves are stealing more identities everyday and it is getting easier for them to do it. This article will show you some steps to take to not be the next victim of an identity thief.

The first simple step I would suggest you take is to purchase a shredder. It is very important to shred all documents and junk mail instead of just tossing them into the trash. This is a very simple and easy step that could potentially save your identity from being stolen.

I would also use caution when answering emails. Never give out your personal information in an email without verifying the sender. If fact, if you receive an email from Ebay or Paypal, for example, I would not respond to that email. I would suggest you go directly to their website and deal with them from there. Never give out your Social Security#, date of birth, drivers license# or any account information in an email. If you have to, call the sender. Hackers are really getting good at making their emails look legitimate.

I would also use caution and be very aware of your surroundings when using atm's and any credit/debit card machine where you have to input your pin. Don't have your credit card laying out in the open where people can see the numbers. With technology so advanced these days people can take pictures of your credit card with their phone and have access to your information.

Keep updated on your credit and bank accounts to notice any changes that may have occurred. If you stay on top of things you will notice any suspicious activity and can immediately report it.

I would also mail your bills at the Post Office and not from your mail box. It is against the law for any one to take your mail, but since identity theft is against the law I don't think this matters much to the perpetrators.

Be careful who you give information over the phone too. Identity thieves can pretend they are your bank, credit card company etc. and may even know enough information to make you think you are talking to the real deal. Instead of giving out your information I would tell them you can't talk right now and then call that business back. If it is legitimate you will know.

The internet is a very easy way for thieves to access your information. Make sure all websites you visit and plan on making a purchase at are secure sites and encrypted. One way to tell is if the website begins with https and not just http. The s stands for secure.

The final thing I would suggest is to keep track of your credit. I would order a credit report at least once a year to see what is going on and if there has been any changes you may not have known about. I have included the top 3 credit reporting agencies, their website and their phone numbers to call and request a copy of your credit report.

Experian.http://www.experian.com #1-888-397-3742

Equifax http://www.equifax.com # 1-800-685-1111

TransUnion http://www.transunion.com #1-800-888-4213

It is never too late to start taking steps to protect your credit.