In just minutes you can begin to protect a lifetime of your hard earned good credit and identity.
Identity Theft
Tips to Avoid ID Theft
Although Identity theft is never entirely preventable there are certain things you can do that can limit the chances you will be a victim of identity theft in the future.
- Check your credit reports at least twice a year. You are entitled to one free credit report from each of the three major credit reporting agencies each year. Contact them at www.annualcreditreport.com or toll free at 1-877-322-8228.
- Do not provide any personal information to a third party unless you are confident of the purpose and feel secure that the information will not be misused. Never give information by e-mail.
- Shred or destroy any documents that contain personal information before putting them in the garbage.
- Remove mail from your mailbox promptly. Get a locked mailbox if possible.
- Notify your financial institution immediately if you suspect your accounts have been compromised or if you have lost any cards or checks.
- Keep a list of all account numbers in a secure, confidential place in case you experience problems with lost cards or theft of checks.
- Place only minimal personal information on the top of your checks. (Initials plus last name and address.)
- Do not store or write PIN information on plastic cards in pocket books or purses.
- Report any suspicious activity to law enforcement and your financial institution.
- Be sure to carefully review all account statements regularly. Notify your financial institution immediately if there are discrepancies.
- Ask service providers to stop using your Social Security Number as an identifier. Ask for a different ID number.
- Review your Personal Earnings and Benefits Statement from the Social Security Administration annually.
In just minutes you can begin to protect a lifetime of your hard earned good credit and identity.
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