Identity theft occurs when someone steals your personal information to take over your credit accounts, open new ones, take out a loan, rent an apartment, access bank accounts, or commit many other crimes using your identity.
Some of the ways in which your identity can be stolen
- From your trash: Bank statements, credit card statements, pre-apporved credit offers, and tax information.
- From your wallet: Drivers licence, credit cards, bank cards.
- Imposter: Somone obtaining your credit report without having lawful rights to the information.
- Internet: Information you may share on unsecured internet sites.
- "Skimming": hi-tech method by which thieves capture your personal or account information from magnetic strips commonly found on your credit card, drivers license, or even passport by swiping your card through a "skimmer" device. More info about Skimming.
Protecting yourself
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Keep your Social Security Number protected!
Do not keep it on your person; keep it in a locked, secure place. Only give out your Social security when it is necessary. -
Review your financal statements thoroughly.
Look for unauthorized transactions or suspicious activity. Contact your financial institution if you find any discrepancies. -
Credit Reports
Credit reports can be a good source for determining that someone else is pretending to be you. -
Watch you mailbox
Leaving you mailbox unattended for a long length of time may be an invitation to a crook. If you are going to be away for any length of time, notify your local post office to hold your mail while you are gone. -
Secure Your Personal Documents
If you have documents that you are required to keep and such documents contain your Social Security number, date of birth, mother's maiden name, address, etc. -- store them in a secured place. Don't just throw that document away--SHRED it if contains personal information about yourself.