Identity theft is one of the most common types of criminal activities. Most people associate id theft with the Internet, however your identity can be compromised any place and time if you aren’t careful.
There are some easy things you can do to help protect your identity offline. Don’t carry around too many credit cards. Leave your social security card at home unless you are going to need it.
Personal information should be kept personal except when it’s essential. Be leery of anyone who asks for your birth date, social security number, PIN number, bank account number or any other personal information.
Be careful when using ATM or debit card readers. Be sure that nobody is watching you enter your PIN number into the keypad. If the machine looks tampered with do not use it. Don’t use ATM machines alone at night.
When choosing your ATM PIN number pick a number that does not have any meaning to you. Many people choose their birth date, address or phone number. These numbers are easy for criminals to guess if they get their hands on your card.
If you lose or misplace your wallet or your credit and debit cards you must immediately call all the bank companies to alert them. You may still be responsible for a certain amount of money – typically about $50 each. Keep a list at home of all your bankcards including card numbers and the phone number to the bank.
Don’t give out your PIN number, bank number or other personal information on the phone. Banks will not call to ask for this information but criminals posing as bank employees may. Instead tell them you will call back with the information and then confirm the phone call with the bank.
Use a shredder to shred bank statements, old checks and credit card statements before throwing them away. Cut up old credit or debit cards before you toss them. Don’t store personal information on a computer that can be used by others.
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