Keep these tips in mind to protect yourself from identity theft:
- Secure your Social Security number (SSN). Don't carry your Social Security card in your wallet. Only give out your SSN when necessary.
- Don't share personal information (birthdate, Social Security number, or bank account number) because someone asks for it.
- Collect mail every day. ...
- Pay attention to your billing cycles Billing Cycle: the number of days between statements on a regularly recurring bill. . ...
- 10 Ways To Protect Yourself From Identity Theft. ...
- Destroy private records and statements. ...
- Secure your mail. ...
- Safeguard your Social Security number. ...
- Don't leave a paper trail. ...
- Never let your credit card out of your sight. ...
- Know who you're dealing with. ...
- Take your name off marketers' hit lists.
What are the best ways to prevent identity theft?
Top Ten Ways to Prevent Identity Theft
- Secure Your Personal Records. Ensure that your personal information is safely secured, especially if you have roommates or employ outside help.
- Protect Your Personal Information Online. Don't post personal information, like your birth date, on social media or elsewhere online. ...
- Limit What You Carry. ...
- Protect Your Social Security Number. ...
How to stop identity theft?
Protection services are crafted to prevent identity theft, alert the customer that identity theft might have occurred, or assist with identity recovery. Identity monitoring services scan the web and online databases for subscribers' personal information such as Social Security numbers or email.
How to check for identity theft?
Pay attention to SMSs from lenders and banks. You could receive a message about a credit account in your name that you’re not aware of, for example, or even escalation to debt collectors for a loan you never took out. Make a point of scanning your bank statements for transactions you don’t recognise.
How can I prevent online identity theft?
- Protect Your Passwords- Use a different password for each online account. ...
- Use Cash- Debit and credit card information is always being stolen. ...
- Never Give Information to Unsolicited Callers- Although there are some legitimate businesses that sell over the phone, many aren’t.
- Keep Your Smartphone Protected- Use an antivirus app. ...
1. Never leave your documents lying around
Your important documents should never be out in the open. They should always be hidden away in places where they’re hard to reach or don’t fit, for example, your kitchen closet.
2. Avoid using facial recognition devices to secure lockers and safes
The disadvantages of a facial recognition device include inaccuracy and inability to detect masks and photos. All a person has to do to open a device using facial recognition that you’ve locked is to put a picture of you in front of the recognition site.
4. Keep your wifi hidden
Hide the Wi-Fi you’ve installed at home so that it doesn’t show itself to those who aren’t specifically searching for it. For more information regarding this, you can contact your service provider and they’ll guide you on how this can be done.
6. Link your online bank accounts to your mobile number
By linking your online bank accounts to your mobile number, you’ll be notified by your bank if any transaction or any other changes are made in your account and you can deal with the situation as soon as possible. This is a very quick way of knowing if you’ve become a victim of identity theft.
7. Keep two-tier security on your smartphone
Make sure your smartphone is protected with two-tier security. Stealing of a cell phone is one of the most common means of identity theft. Therefore, you need to make sure that your mobile is well protected.
8. Install app in your smartphone to delete data remotely
Many smartphones have an inbuilt application that allows you to remotely remove all data on it if it gets lost. Make sure you know how that works on your smartphone so that if it ever gets lost, you can immediately clear all the data in it.
9. Avoid using public wifi
Never use public Wi-Fi, especially on devices or gadgets that contain valuable information like your bank account passwords and other such information.
1. Avoid clicking on links if you do not recognize the sender
Appearance can be deceiving! We often get forwarded messages on WhatsApp and other social media platforms to register on some link to redeem benefits. Even if the message seems legitimate, it is generally safest to visit the original website directly. Doing so will ensure that you do not click on links that direct you to a fraudulent website.
2. Criminals can access information sent through public Wi-Fi. Avoid using it
If you you’re out shopping for the holidays, you may be tempted to check your bank account or credit card statement to see how much you’ve spent.
3. Regularly Check Your Credit Reports
Credit card fraud is one of the most observed identity theft fraud type. Credit reports will include any suspicious activity on your financial accounts. As a result, check your credit report regularly for any discrepancies. Limit the number of credit cards you carry in your wallet, so if it is stolen you can minimize the impact.
4. Sign up for mobile banking alerts
Besides regularly reviewing your credit card and banking monthly statements, sign up for alerts. Most financial institutions will contact you by email or text when an large withdrawal or purchase occurs. Download your bank’s official mobile app so you can monitor your accounts from your phone.
How to keep personal information secure?from houstontx.gov
Keep personal information in a secure place at home. Shred all documents containing identifying data.
Who to advise when a charge is made without your permission?from houstontx.gov
Advise the merchant or creditor that the account was opened or the charge was made without your permission.
How to remove fraudulent information from credit report?from houstontx.gov
Ask merchants or creditors to instruct the credit-reporting agency to remove all information related to a fraudulent transaction from your file.
What information do criminals use to open accounts?from houstontx.gov
Criminals will open up new accounts using your name, date of birth, and social security number. Since they don’t pay the bills, the delinquent accounts are reported on your credit report. Sometimes your information is also used to establish utility service, phone or wireless service for various addresses.
How to get a copy of a 911 incident report?from houstontx.gov
You may obtain a copy of your incident report by contacting the Records Division at 713-308-8585, by appearing in person at 1200 Travis, 23rd floor, or by requesting one by mail. Please call the Records Division in advance to confirm that your report is available and to receive a quote on the cost of your report.
How to report a crime in Houston?from houstontx.gov
Report the crime by calling the Houston Police Department at 713-884-3131 if the illegal activity occurred in the City of Houston. Filing a report is the first step in what may be a lengthy and frustrating process to repair your credit and reclaim your identity.
Where to find affidavit of fraud?from houstontx.gov
Many merchants and creditors accept the “Affidavit of Fraud” form found online at www.consumer.gov/idtheft. Please do not send affidavits to the Financial Crimes Unit. Your original police report is sufficient.
How to protect yourself from identity theft?from usa.gov
Keep these tips in mind to protect yourself from identity theft: Secure your Social Security number (SSN). Don't carry your Social Security card in your wallet. Only give out your SSN when necessary. Don't share personal information (birthdate, Social Security number, or bank account number) because someone asks for it.
What is identity theft?from rickorford.com
Simply put, identity theft takes place when someone uses information about you without your permission, and preventing it is a key. This information can include your name and address, social security number, credit or debit cards, bank account numbers, date of birth, and other identifying information about you that may not be readily available to others. When scammers get ahold of this information, they can use it to apply for credit in your name, steal your tax refund, obtain medical services, conduct unauthorized bank transactions and even pretend to be you if they are arrested.
What is the difference between a theft report and an ID theft report?from usa.gov
The difference between reporting ID theft online or phone is if you receive an ID theft report. An ID theft report helps you prove to businesses that someone stole your identity. This report helps you fix problems caused by the identity theft. If you report by phone, you won't get an ID theft report.
What are the different types of identity theft?from usa.gov
Types of ID Theft. There are several common types of identity theft that can affect you: Tax ID theft - Someone uses your Social Security number to falsely file tax returns with the IRS or your state. Medical ID theft - Someone steals your Medicare ID or health insurance member number. Thieves use this information to get medical services ...
What can you shred to prevent a dumper diver?from usa.gov
Shred receipts, credit offers, account statements, and expired credit cards. This can prevent “dumpster divers” from getting your personal information.
What can identity thieves do to your credit?from usa.gov
The identity thief may use your information to apply for credit, file taxes, or get medical services. These acts can damage your credit status, and cost you time and money to restore your good name. Open All +.
What to do if bills are late?from usa.gov
If bills or financial statements are late, contact the sender. Use the security features Security Feature: an app or setting on a wireless device that can help protect the device and the information on it from threats and vulnerabilities. on your mobile phone.
How to protect yourself from identity theft?
Keep these tips in mind to protect yourself from identity theft: Secure your Social Security number (SSN). Don't carry your Social Security card in your wallet. Only give out your SSN when necessary. Don't share personal information (birthdate, Social Security number, or bank account number) because someone asks for it.
What is identity theft?
Identity Theft. Identity (ID) theft happens when someone steals your personal information to commit fraud. The identity thief may use your information to apply for credit, file taxes, or get medical services. These acts can damage your credit status, and cost you time and money to restore your good name. Open All +.
What is the difference between a theft report and an ID theft report?
The difference between reporting ID theft online or phone is if you receive an ID theft report. An ID theft report helps you prove to businesses that someone stole your identity. This report helps you fix problems caused by the identity theft. If you report by phone, you won't get an ID theft report.
What are the different types of identity theft?
Types of ID Theft. There are several common types of identity theft that can affect you: Tax ID theft - Someone uses your Social Security number to falsely file tax returns with the IRS or your state. Medical ID theft - Someone steals your Medicare ID or health insurance member number. Thieves use this information to get medical services ...
What can you shred to prevent a dumper diver?
Shred receipts, credit offers, account statements, and expired credit cards. This can prevent “dumpster divers” from getting your personal information.
What to do if bills are late?
If bills or financial statements are late, contact the sender. Use the security features Security Feature: an app or setting on a wireless device that can help protect the device and the information on it from threats and vulnerabilities. on your mobile phone.
Can a child's ID go undetected?
Child ID theft may go undetected for many years. Victims may not know until they’re adults, applying for their own loans. Seniors often share their personal information with doctors and caregivers. The number of people and offices that access seniors' information put them at risk.
Precaution 1
Identity theft thieves will steal your identity by rummaging through your trash, so make sure you invest in a Shredder so that you can shred all unwanted mail or documents.
Precaution 2
Also, use your credit and debit cards at retail outlets that you are comfortable with because thieves will use storage devices when processing your card to steal your credit or debit card number.
Precaution 3
Use an updated anti-virus on your computers and change your username and password regularly. It helps in identity theft monitoring and takes you a step closer towards identity theft protection.
Precaution 4
Retrieve your mail every day; don’t leave mail in your mailbox. Once thieves get your mail they can divert your bank statements to another address.
Precaution 5
Beware of companies that may call and request your personal information. Sometimes you might even get an email from a company that claims to be your bank stating that they need to update your information. Do Not Fall Prey To This.
Precaution 6
Be careful about where you leave your personal information and belonging at work, things like purses, wallets, handbags or briefcase. Remember identity theft thieves are everywhere; sometimes they are your closest friends, significant other, work associates or even your family members.
In conclusion
There is no guarantee that you will not become a victim but I am sure that if you take these six precautions, you will definitely lower your risk of becoming a victim and take you a step closer towards identity theft prevention.
What is identity theft?
Simply put, identity theft takes place when someone uses information about you without your permission, and preventing it is a key.
Spotting and Preventing Identity Theft and Fraud
To keep your financial house in order, it is important to check your credit report regularly. In the past, consumers could pull a credit report from each credit bureau (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) for free once a year. Indeed, checking your credit report is an important tactic to prevent identity theft.
Tips for Preventing Identity Theft
To prevent identity theft from happening altogether, there are several safeguards that you can put in place. We break down a few easy ways to protect yourself. Keep your financial records, Social Security card, and health insurance information in a safe place.
Email Safety Tips
As scammers become more sophisticated, so too have their fraudulent emails. Below are a few red flags to be on the look out for preventing identity theft.
Know the warning signs for phishing scams
When you receive an email asking for personal information or prompting you for a log-in, always check the “to” line to make sure the email is actually coming from the domain that it claims. You can also preview the links before clicking them.
Card Safety Tips
Specifically when dealing with credit and debit cards, there are several easy ways to keep your information safe. Keep your PIN safe. Do not give your PIN to anyone, and when using an ATM, conceal your PIN if anyone is standing nearby. In addition, do not write your PIN on any of your cards.
Child Identity Theft
Child identity theft has become a greater threat in recent years, with more than 1 million children affected in 2017. The perpetrators of child identity theft are typically relatives or friends of the child’s parents, who steal the Social Security Number of the child and use it to open accounts or new credit.
How can we prevent identity theft?
Educate Others – If everyone teaches others about protections, there will be fewer identity thefts and fewer people who will try to do this because it’s not as lucrative.
How many people get identity theft each year?
Millions of people fall victim to identity theft each year. The number seems to be decreasing the past couple of years, but even one is too many in my opinion. To prevent the possible emotional and financial stress of having your identity stolen, just praying that the government and credit report agencies will further improve their system isn’t enough.
How to cancel a credit card if it's stolen?
Create a list of phone numbers and credit cards that you have (it’s not absolutely crucial that you record the full credit card numbers on it but if you do, remember to keep it in a secure place). In case your wallet is stolen, you can quickly call all card companies to cancel those cards.
What to do when you move to a new address?
When you move, contact all credit card, creditors, and IRS immediately of the address change.
What is a security token?
Security tokens – Some banks are starting to offer those security tokens that change numbers every few seconds as an added security over your password when logging onto your online account. Take advantage if yours offer one.
When to cover checks?
Cover your checks when you mail them so sensitive information is facing inwards.
Can you trust someone over the phone?
Don’t Trust Anyone Over the Phone – Never give anything out over the phone. It’s just too dangerous.
How to protect your identity when it is stolen?
As soon as you have reason to believe your identity may have been stolen, take precautions to minimize the damage and change passwords for everything, regardless of whether they contain any sensitive information .
What to do if your identity is stolen?
Order copies of your credit report. If you're concerned your identity might have been stolen, review your credit report and note any suspicious transactions or entries, such as requests for credit in your name or new cards for which you never applied. In the U.S., there are three major credit bureaus.
How to file an identity theft complaint?
File a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). The FTC operates a Complaint Assistant website that will guide you step-by-step through the process of filing an identity theft complaint. You will need this complaint to prove your identity was stolen .
How to protect your personal information?
Use strong passwords and PINs. Your passwords and PINs shouldn't be something anyone could guess, even if they had access to some of your personal information. Avoid names, addresses, and birth dates. [2]
What to do if someone steals your identity?
Carry only what you need. There typically is a lot of identifying information in your wallet or purse. If stolen, the person can use that information to steal your identity. For your protection and to help prevent identity theft, leave anything at home that you aren't planning on using.
How many people were victims of identity theft in 2015?
More than 13,000,000 people were victims of identity theft in 2015 in the United States alone. While people are getting better at recognizing potential identity theft and minimizing the damage, it's better if you can prevent it from happening in the first place.
What to do if you have a mailbox that can be easily accessed by others?
If you have a mailbox that can be easily accessed by others, consider getting a high-security locking mailbox or a post office box for financial mail.