Identity Theft Prevention - Simple Ways To Protect Your Information

By Jake M. Black

Identity theft prevention can be easily accomplished and you can effectively protect your personal and financial information. There are many avenues for individuals to obtain your personal information and with the popularity of the internet you must even more wary of providing personal information. Identity theft can damage your finances and make life very difficult for many years.

The main information that people look for is credit card information, debit card information, phone calling cards and your social security number. Identity theft can occur due to individuals going through your trash and accessing information online or through your computer.

A very important step for identity theft prevention is to destroy all of your personal documents before you throw them out. Tearing up or shredding your documents is a way of ensuring that no one can access your information.

You also need to make sure your mail is secure and you can use a locked mailbox, PO Box or just make sure your mail is collected quickly after delivery each day.

Your social security card should always be kept in a safe place that is fireproof and waterproof. A bank box and small safe are best. You only get one social security card and if someone should get yours then they can do almost anything in your name. You also want to eliminate a paper trail so try to stop getting receipts at ATMS or if you do have receipts make sure you destroy them.

Always keep your credit cards on you and don't let it out of your sight. If possible pay with cash when you can as any time you take your card out is the opportunity for someone to steal your number. Also make sure you know who is asking for your private and personal information. If someone calls from a bank make sure that their request is legitimate. If necessary you can contact the company yourself to ensure that they have requested that information.

You also want to keep track of your information by monitoring your credit report. You can receive a free credit report each year for free and you should look for suspicious information. You also should review your credit card statements each month and make sure you keep track of your purchases. - 32534

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