Taking Steps To Protect Yourself From Identity Theft

There are a number of forms of identity theft. The fraudulent use of another person's credit card, charging up bills in another's name and seeking work in someone else's name are all examples. Unfortunately, the people who are victims of identity theft are often help responsible for debts and other problems created. This is one of the reasons you need to take steps to protect yourself.

The first step to protecting yourself is to be able to recognize different types of identity theft and how they happen. Check your credit rating regularly and watch your bills and statements for errors or unusual activity. Plus, consider the following:

- Don't give our your private information unless it's someone you know well and you know you can trust

- Always shred any documents that contain personal information before you throw them out

- Social security numbers are strictly confidential. Never have them (or any other personal identification number like a drivers license) printed on checks

- Leave unnecessary identification at home or someplace safe so they are not stolen

- Consider taking your details out of the phonebook

- Cancel and destroy all credit cards that you don't use

- If your purse or wallet has been stolen, contact any financial institution that you may have an account with

You can also help protect yourself by keeping important documents locked away in a safe at home or a safety deposit box at your bank. Never share your personal information through unsolicited email or phone calls. If you're traveling, leave a copy of your identification with someone you can contact in case the originals are stolen or lost.

How To Protect Your Identity On The Internet

Tips for protection against online identity theft are relatively simple. Always keep the computer protected from viruses and hacking using high quality antivirus and spyware programs which are updated regularly. Change passwords frequently and make them as hard to figure out as possible using combinations of letters and numbers. Never answer emails requesting account information, passwords or credit card details. Before entering bank or credit card information, verify that the website is authentic and safe to use as it could easily be a fake.

By: Paul Wilcox

Are you worried about identity theft and other types of internet threats? Learn how to set up solid PC security so you don't get taken on the net. Get more helpful tips and information at www.securitymanor.com

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