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Identity theft is becoming more and more prevalent in today’s society. After years of hard work, people are losing everything to simple and easily avoidable mistakes. The most important aspect of protecting your identity is simple: don’t give it out. There are countless phony telephone calls you will get over the course of your life, with people taking advantage of you by claiming you have won a contest you never entered or claim to be calling from your credit card company. Never give out your important personal information such as your Social Security number, banking information or anything else you hold dear without knowing who you’re talking to. If you haven’t initiated the call to a person or organization, don’t be so forthcoming about giving out your information either. Below is some basic information on preventing identity theft.

Step 1:

Be skeptical. Often information you think would be useless to a thief, such as your age, can inevitably be used against you to create fraudulent credit card accounts in your name. You will no doubt fill out many applications in your life, whether it is employment, banking related or just to bring your cat to the vet; but how much information do these people really need? Does your vet really need to know your social security number? I think not. Do you need to give out your driver’s license number to buy a book online? I doubt it. Be skeptical of companies and persons who are making strange requests for information that they obviously do not need; a lot of times it is not a legitimate person and you could become a victim of identity theft.

Step 2:

Watch your credit report. Keep a heads-up on your credit report; you can obtain a credit report every year for free by Federal Law and it will not hurt your score to find out what has been happening in your credit life. Make sure you keep your credit cards safe and secure; receipts can seem meaningless, but even having just a few numbers of your card in the wrong hands can turn your life into a nightmare because of identity theft. The safest place for your credit information is with you. Do not put credit card numbers on any checks or envelopes or other papers that can easily be passed through the hands of dishonest persons. Preventing identity theft does not have to be so laborious; just keep your personal safety in mind.

Step 3:

Keep an eye on your credit cards. When dining at a restaurant, pay attention to who handles the credit card you've given them and how it's rang up. Though it is not as common as other methods, some unsuspecting people have had their credit card numbers and information stolen by dubious waiters/waitresses; after all, you've just given them everything they need to steal your identity.

Be cautious of your information, stay on top of your credit history and know who to call if you've become a victim of a heinous identity theft crime. Don't be just another statistic of identity theft. Following the few simple practices outlined above can ensure your safety and security with your credit life and prevent identity theft.

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Jason Kay recommends using LifeLock to secure your identity. LifeLock is the only identity theft prevention solution backed by a one-million dollar guarantee. Join now and get a 10% discount.
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Comments

Great advice on identity theft protection.

By Tracey Parker 5 weeks 5 days

    I was interested in this article one because I have just started writing and am looking at the successful contributors.
    I identified weith the credit card thing as some time ago had a situation where I left my bag in a Restaurant, where I was working, I was astounded to find that when I received my statement, I had a very small purchase from that business. I had never really thought about it, but back then pin numbers were not the norm, and a staff member merely had to swipe and press enter, to obtain your credit. Amazing But good articles.

    By mandy Beaucariche 5 weeks 5 days