You hear it everywhere, but what are some of the best ways to avoid identity theft?
1) Secure your social security number. This holds the key to your credit information, financial information even medical records.
2) Monitor your credit reports (all three). Some people think this is an expense they can't afford or is unnecessary, but I say you can't afford not to. Some companies will do this for as little as $4.95 per month, that is only 16cents per day. You will be alerted anytime an inquiry to your credit is made.
3) Photo copy all the cards you carry in your purse or wallet and keep in a safe place. This will make it a bit easier if you do fall victim to this crime, as to whom you'll need to contact. Some of the credit reporting companies will take care of this for you after you inform them, but you'll probably pay a little more per month.
4) Shred all unwanted offers for credit and any outdated statements that show account information for credit cards, banking info utility accounts.
5) Do not give out any personal information out over the phone, unless you've initiated the call. There are currently scams out there that tricking people into giving up this information, because they think it's their provider that is contacting them. However, if you ask for a contact number to call them back, the response will give you a good indication of whether the call is legitimate or not.
6) Only make online purchases through a secure form such as paypal.
These are some ways to help you avoid falling victim to this invasive criminal act.
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