If you are like a lot of Americans you are probably worried about the chance of your identity being stolen.  I have had family and friends that have been victims of this crime. This has become a very popular crime over the past few years, and more and more people are suffering the consequences.  But just because this crime is common, does not mean that you should give into it.  Instead, you should learn how to prevent identity theft from happening to you.

The first thing that you will want to do in order to ensure that your identity is safe is to never give out your personal information to anybody.  If for some reason your social security number is requested, make sure that it is an absolute necessity.  Many times, the only reason that somebody will need your social security number is for filing reasons.  In other words, they can find another way to identify you.  By simply asking questions you will greatly decrease your chances of somebody stealing your identity.

Also, make sure that you take extra care of your belongings.  This means that you should never lose your social security card, credit card, or any other form that lists this information.  If somebody comes across these things they will be able to access your personal information, and use it with no problems whatsoever.

Being aware of your surroundings and asking questions is one of the best ways to ensure that your identity stays safe at all times.  This may seem easy, and it is! 

Here are some additional tips you can take to help avoid identity theft:

• Guard your social security number.  Do not carry your social security card unless you need it; memorize your number.  This number is a critical element in gaining access to your credit report and bank accounts.
• Keep a close eye on your credit report, checking for any wrongfully opened accounts.  After applying for a loan, credit, etc. ask to have your credit report mailed to you, since they no longer need it once a decision has been made.  The three major credit reporting agencies are: Equifax – www.equifax.com, Experian – www.experian.com, TransUnion – www.transunion.com.
• Monitor your mail closely.  If you are going to be gone a few days have the Post Office hold your mail.  Put all outgoing mail in a United States Post Office box and do not leave it in your personal mailbox.  Ensure that you are receiving your monthly credit card bills and financial statements and check them for accuracy.  Shred all old bank and credit card statements.  Shred all “junk mail” credit card offers and any papers containing personal information.
• Protect your credit card information.  Report a lost or stolen credit card as soon as possible.  If you apply for a credit card and don’t receive it as expected, call the issuing company.  Sign all new credit cards immediately upon receipt.  Check the expiration dates on your credit cards and contact the issuing company if you have not received a replacement card prior to the expiration date.
• Along with protecting your credit card information make sure you keep a log of your credit cards in a safe and secure place, maybe a safety deposit box. Keep with it phone number contacts in case the informaton is stolen, so that if one is stolen you will be able to report it immediately.
• Watch out for any telephone or email offers of any kind asking for personal or financial information.  Many will attempt to entice you with offers of a prize.
• Never leave bank, credit card, or ATM receipts in the machines, on counters, or gas pumps.
• Do not reveal your credit card information, account numbers, or other personal information on the internet unless the site offers a “secure transaction.”  You can ensure that it is a “secure transaction” by two means:  A “lock” icon is in the bottom part of the web browser page, or the URL for the webpage changes from “http” to “https” when you change to the page requesting your personal information.

A heightened state of awareness is a must is this world of ever-increasing identity theft.

Almost anyone can be a victim of identity theft or fraud.  However, just because you are a possible target, does not mean that you can’t help yourself avoid any problems down the road.  By keeping your information confidential you will increase your chances of staying safe in the long run.  Prevention is possible, it is time to get started today.

tags: credit check credit reports equifax experian identity fraud idetity theft transunion