Since becoming a web marketing expert I have also come to understand the danger out there from people who have greater tools than ever to steal our identites. To protect yours do these things:
1) Buy a shredder! And get one that does CDs as well as paper. They are relatively cheap at Staples or Office Depot and you should use it religiously. I shred ANYTHING that comes to me in the mail that has personal information on it that I no longer need. The most common way people get your identity is stealing your garbage. Their favorite excuse is "I was just looking for Aluminum cans". The fact is that once you put your garbage on the curb, ANYONE can take it LEGALLY! So make sure there is nothing in it you don't want anyone to have.
2) Protect your Social Security number and NEVER give it out unless absolutely required by law!
3) Check your credit report annually (at a minimum). The 3 credit reporting companies are:
Trans Union http://www.tuc.com/
Experian http://www.experian.com/
Equifax http://www.equifax.com/
4) Block your name from marketing lists and remove it from pre-approved credit card offers by calling (888) 567-8688
5) Don't carry your birth certificate, extra credit cards, or social security cards with you for regualr errands
6) Keep all confidential info in a safety deposit box or safe
7) ONLY use reliable online transaction clearing houses
8) pay attention to clerks using your card in a store. If they still use manual credit card machines ask for the carbon paper.
9) add a firewall and/or router to your computer if you have an internet connection
10) If you suspect your ID have been stolen call police immediately and check out these sites:
http://www.idtheftcenter.org/
www.consumer.gov/idtheft
If your identity has been stolen you will need to engage the services of a credit repair firm. Feel free to email me if you want the name of a good one.
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