Simple steps can be taken starting by signing all credit and debit cards when you receive them. Carry only the necessary cards and indentifying information in your purse or wallet.> Do not carry your social security card.
> Do not carry PIN numbers with your cards. > Do not leave receipts lying around.
> Protect your mail that contains personal information by hand delivering your mail to the Post Office or mail carrier.> Check your credit reports at least annually. Dispute and remove errors or unknown accounts in the reports.
> Check bank and credit card statements and bills regularly. Report unauthorized transactions immediately and then in writing.> Avoid giving personal information and account information via phone, fax, mail, or e-mail if you have not initiated the communication in the first place.> Choose your tax preparer very carefully, if you do not prepare your own tax return.> Read a company's privacy and security policy in order to understand how your personal information will be used, disclosed and protected.> Use strong passwords to protect sensitive information and financial accounts. Do not use mothers maiden name, birthdates, pets name all are easily obtainable. Change often!> Install a firewall on your computer.> Use anti-virus, anti-spam, and anti-spyware software and keep it updated.
> Keep your browser updated.> Do not respond to requests for personal information from unsolicited e-mails or pop-up windows.> Visit a web site by entering the web address (URL) yourself, not by clicking a link in an e-mail.> When downloading a program, game, etc., read all of the providers statement of terms to insure you avoid downloading additional unwanted software.
>Check that you use secure websites for sensitive communications or transactions. Look for the lock icon in the bottom right of the screen and the when entering the URL address includes an "s" in the "https"
Identity Theft
