By: Glenn 3-Jan-2011
Introduction:
While the Internet has made it easier for thieves to steal your identity from online exposure, the old fashioned ways are still being used. Here are five ways to protect yourself from identity theft.
Shred It
Before you put papers in the trash that have your name, address, phone number or any type of personal information on them, shred them. For less than $50.00 you can purchase an electric shreder that will do the work for you.
Never Talk to Strangers
Never talk to strangers on the telephone. Many thieves and scam artists are experts at getting you to tell them everything they need to become you. They may call and tell you that your credit card was just used and they are checking to see if you made a purchase. They may ask you to confirm your account number with them or other information. Don't do it! Hang up and contact your credit card company yourself.
Keep Your Information Well Guarded
Never give your personal information to anyone you don't know. Giving out your birthday to a stranger on the phone who may already have your credit card number can be the last key piece of information they need to become you. Never give out your social security number, bank name, account numbers, children's names, and see number two above.
Use the Post Office
Never leave your outgoing mail in your mail box for the post office to pick up. While it is not as common as it was twenty years ago, when you put up that red flag for the post man, you put up the welcome/steal me sign for a thief. Take your outgoing mail to the post office.
Change Your Password
Make all your passwords unique and change them frequently. If you do Internet banking, make credit card payments or Internet purchases, change your passwords often and never use common words or family names.
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