Credit Report Monitoring: Why Do You Need It?

By Benedict Perez

One of the most popular ways to shop nowadays is through online. Ecommerce has truly brought the consumer's shopping experience to the next level. One can enjoy buying and canvassing products or avail services at the comfort of their homes. But as more and more people transact in the Internet, it has resulted to increased number of Internet fraud cases and identity theft. Personal data and information are being stolen so they can gain access to personal accounts. Such crimes can greatly affect your life and your future. That is why it is very important to have credit report monitoring as absolute protection against identity thieves.

What is credit report monitoring?

Credit report monitoring is the controlling and checking of credit history in order to detect and expose suspicious activities or changes that might be due to identity theft crimes. Using this kind of monitoring enables consumers to stay on track with their credits. It helps one realize the direction of their credits whether they are heading downwards or upwards.

What are the advantages of credit report monitoring?

It keeps you on the track. Whether you are a consumer who uses credit cards for purchasing goods or a business owner who is seeking more credit, it is critical that you monitor your credits. Also, most lending companies and employers are more careful when doing business with potential clients and employees, respectively. The credit report speaks the kind of character and of course, the credit situation an individual has. It tells whether one makes timely payments or if you have a bad credit history. The report even shows if one had suffered from bankruptcy before or already on the edge of bankruptcy.

Lets you know if there are any incorrect credit reports. A lot have already suffered from inaccurate reports and this is one good reason why you need to regularly monitor your credits. This erroneous information can bring negative on your part as it may affect your overall credit score.

It protects you from identity theft. Ecommerce and online shopping is quite popular these days as it makes shopping a lot easier and less hassle. But at the same time, it enables identity thieves to gain access to more victims. The task of monitoring programs is to thoroughly investigate any suspicious activities in your account. This may include changes in your credit limit, account information, address, inquiries and current account and public records.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Credit Report Monitoring Company

The first thing you need to know is where a particular credit monitoring provider receives information. Data from any of the 3 major credit card agencies is always the preferred choice. Second, you also need to know how frequent they monitor. This is important because frequent monitoring increases the odds of catching an identity theft. Third, you need to determine if there are other services offered by the company like frequency of the released reports and updates. Some may include identity theft insurance if in case they made a mistake or overlooked a thief. - 32534

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Beware That Government Identity Theft Is Increasing

By Josh Dawson

Theft is something that we have all had to deal with at some point in our lives. But now, we are dealing with a new form of theft which involves the identity of an innocent person. Also, beware that Government identity theft is increasing rapidly. In this case, criminals steal your private information and use it in very harmful ways.

In recent years, we have been told to supply our social security number to pretty much anyone who "needs" it. Of course, this practice that must be halted immediately. If you don't protect your private information, someone can destroy your life as you know it.

Whoever comes across your personal information has the capacity to apply for loans, all of which are in your name and you are responsible for. In order to stay on top of the game, it is imperative that you thoroughly review your credit report every three or four months. This way, you'll be able to spot any strange occurrences, and ensure that they are cleared up or stopped before the damages become insurmountable.

Of course, Congress is to blame for a lot of these goings on. They made everyone's Social Security number and national identifier. That means, any time you need to open a bank account, apply for a license, or any other ridiculous reason, you would have to supply your Social Security number. The government is trying to take some action, thankfully.

Identity fraud and theft has become so popular because Congress made giving out your Social Security number or a regular practice. But, the problems that can arise are truly frightening. In fact, many Americans became victims, losing all their life savings and financial assets, and finally ended up with destroyed credit, too!

It is imperative that you take the proper action to protect yourself and your loved ones from any type of fraud that may occur at any given time. Learn to keep your personal information private and keep a close eye on all your assets and your credit report. - 32534

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What Are Some Identity Theft Examples

By Josh Dawson

Many people think that they are exempt from identity theft. They think it can't happen to them because they know what it is. Yet, there are some people out there that know the common principle of it all, but they don't know how this happens or what it looks like. Therefore, to help those people, we have identity theft examples.

Some have their credit card information stolen. This person claims to be the cardholder and then goes to rack up a bill. They buy some crazy crap. You might find that your credit card is maxed out. Then you are left to pay the bill. This is one example of identity theft.

Another example would be people get a hold of your Social Security number. They then order a credit card in your name. They don't make the payments. They take out loans. You might never know until collections come after you or when you go to apply for loan or something of that nature.

Yet, how does this happen? Many times, it's scams in which they get this information. They might hack into your computer and obtain the information this way. That is one example.

Some will tell you that they are going around and getting a donation. They will try getting you to give them a check or they will say that they need certain information that they should not have. What you need to is report these if they happen and then stay updated about the scams that are going on.

These are all identity theft examples as how they get their information. Don't be a victim. There are ways that they are educating people. Be aware and make sure you protect yourself. Get a shredder and more. Let's put an end to this. - 32534

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How To Avoid Becoming A Victim Of Identity Theft Privacy

By Josh Dawson

Theft of your personal identity is rising rapidly partly because more people are using the convenience of the internet and ATM machines to conduct financial transactions. Identity theft privacy can make just about anyone a victim.

With people doing more and more with their financial accounts on line, the stealing of social security numbers, credit card numbers, bank account numbers, and addresses are on the rise.

It is such a quickly growing crime that the Attorney General has seen fit to issue some suggestions to slow its growth. He wants consumers and business owners to be thoroughly educated on preventive measures. He suggests more legislation on the matter, with harsh legal actions for people convicted of this crime.

Some other general tips can also be useful in preventing your own identity from being stolen. You should never give account numbers, social security numbers, or any other personal information to someone you have not personally contacted. On your internet accounts, put stronger passwords that will be harder to hack into. Do not carry personal identification numbers for accounts, social security cards, or other types of identification with you unless it is absolutely necessary.

Shred those documents with sensitive account information before trashing them. Keep a close eye on your mail, and stop your mail if you know you will be away. Ask that your name be removed from any preapproved credit or unsolicited mailing lists. Check your banking and credit card statements as soon as they arrive, and do a periodic check of your credit reports.

There are also many companies available today that offer identity theft services. They usually charge a small monthly fee to keep a close eye on your accounts. Be sure to check to make sure that they are a legitimate company with a positive reputation.

Identity theft privacy should always be in the back of your mind. Being careful and following some guidelines can prevent future problems. - 32534

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Maintaining Credit Card

By Landon McGehee

A woman purchased a set of furniture in a large store. She gave the salesperson cash but never received the goods: The "salesperson", it appeared, was a bogus one, not an identifiable employee of the store at all. Even though the customer never got a receipt for her money, even though the records of the store showed no entry for her deposit, the court ruled that the store was entirely responsible:

"Certainly the proprietor's duty of care and precaution for the safety and security of the customer encompasses more than the diligent observation and removal of banana peels from the aisles...the duty of the proprietor also encircles the exercise of reasonable care and vigilance to protect the customer from losses occasioned by the deception of an apparent salesman."

The principle involved here should interest you. A crook who preys upon customers from your premises is your responsibility: Suppose he's an employee of yours? Obviously you are in trouble then. Suppose he is an employee preying not only on customers but upon your other employees, as well as upon you. The ramifications are endless. One thing is clear, It is you who will pay, whether it be damages, losses, court costs, or what not. You simply cannot afford to be so careless as to allow a thief to operate on your premises in any way. Now, that should make you think of the many different.

Ways in which you can lose through the depredations of a crook in your midst, aside from the supposedly easy calculation of what he has taken. There are numerous other side-losses which can occur, such as the expense of investigating and proving the loss, the loss or destruction of records (How that can cost you time and money and snarl things up), the loss of at least the one key employee and possibly others in the ensuing recriminations.

Other losses: the possible straying of other honest employees by example, the cost of hiring and training replacements, the loss of business by time lost on customers plus possible customer involvement in unpleasantness, bad publicity and prestige loss, general lowering of morale among the whole staff, particularly dangerous when unwarranted suspicion is forced upon honest employees, possible bankruptcy or at least loss of necessary funds which in turn can lead to a whole list of losses.

When hiring employees many companies now pull a credit report. Do you know what is in yours? If you do not manage your finances well, how does reflect on your potential employment? Pulling your credit report yearly and managing your personal finances play a big part in the way people view your personal character. - 32534

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Learn About Identity Theft Red Flag

By Josh Dawson

Some people can use your identity to take your money or to do illegal acts. It's very easy to protect your name and personal info. Follow some easy methods and stay safe. Learn how to discover the identity theft red flag in time. By doing this you will not lose any money or get in troubles.

Usually there are a lot of cases of identity theft online. This is why before you buy something from a website using your credit card you should check the company's reputation. If the feedback you find is mostly positive you can purchase products. You just have to invest a few minutes from your time to do a little research online.

If someday you will see that your money are disappearing from your bank account you should call your bank. Ask them to help you recuperate your money. All you have to do is to check what purchases you made.

Be very careful with your online passwords. The biggest mistake is to use the same password for everything. Avoid simple passwords and change them from time to time. Another way someone can use your identity is by stilling your mail and using your signature. You can avoid this by emptying your mail box whenever it's possible.

Always protect your computer with an efficient anti virus. Keep in mind that you should keep your bank passwords in a note book. This way nobody will be able to find them in your computer.

If you are not very careful you will risk to be the victim of identity theft. Keep in mind that you are the only person who can do something to avoid this situation. If you are well informed you can take all the measures to protect your identity. From time to time try to discover new ways to do this. - 32534

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I.D. Theft - Four Suggestions

By Shawne M. Patrick

Many individuals think that identity theft isn't going to happen to them. Sadly, it is very probable that it will happen to you at least once in your lifetime. In this era with so many forms of identification available, there are pretty much as many forms of identity theft that may leave you a victim.

While you can't fully prevent ID theft, here are 4 ways in which you can help stop it from happening to you, as well as protect yourself from credit fraud.

First, keeping a tight watch on your bank records can help you stop ID theft. When you maintain a record of the statements you receive in the mail every month, you can be sure they are not being nicked in transit. Plus, you will be able to check to be certain that no irregular spending has been charged to your account.

2nd, you should also limit the quantity of information that is written on your checks. And, when you pay your debts, be certain you don't leave your checks in an unlocked mailbox that would be raided by burglars. Instead, wait until your postal carrier comes to supply and pick up your mail, then hand your mail to him/her immediately. Even better take it to the post office - or pay the corporations you conduct business with in person, or online thru their websites. You may make your payments online thru your bank if it offers online checking and bill payment.

3rd, always destroy anything you propose to dump that includes any personal information. Even though your youngster drew a pretty picture on the back of an important scrap of paper, you must rip it up before you lose it. Or, even better get in the practice of shredding everything you throw away - including digital data. Otherwise, you run the chance of people digging thru your trash, or other dumpsters, simply to get personal information they can use to commit ID theft.

Ultimately, always be conscious of the people around you. It's not relevant if you are at the office or in your local grocery. People may be glancing over your shoulder to have a look at your PIN and Visa card numbers. - 32534

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