In order to help prevent identity theft it is essential that you monitor your finances on a regular basis. Here are some steps you can take to stop the thieves.
1. Monitor all balances of your financial accounts.
2. Look for strange or unexplained charges or withdrawals.
3. Monitor your credit at least yearly and determine that no loans are being taken in your name.
4. Place passwords on all your credit, bank and phone accounts.
5. Secure personal information in your home, especially from roommates, outside help or contractors.
6. Shred your charge receipts, credit applications or offers.
7. Limit the number of credit cards and debit cards.
Your computer can also be a porthole into your life. Updating your virus protection software can be an effective deterrent. Never download files from strangers. Never store financial information on your laptop.
There's not enough that anyone can do to close all the holes in their personal security. It's a statement of the age that we must be so cautious!
With the advent of RFID, there's a new threat, where we can't even walk into a crowded area without the threat of being stolen from.
The hackers call it "The Johnny Carson Attack".
It truly is a crime. And the most unprosecuted one in history.
Posted by: Ron Hatton | December 06, 2008 at 01:36 AM
I have opted out of prescreen credit card applications and receive my bills and bank statements electronically. When I do get the occasional mail, I shred it immediately.
I have also found this resource: http://www.fellowes.com/Fellowes/site/workspace/workspace_article_identity_6.aspx
Posted by: Toni S | January 19, 2009 at 05:50 PM