Ways To Prevent Identity Theft
Identity theft is indeed a reality today. Anyone using a credit card or doing financial transactions online can become a victim to this fastest growing criminal offense. But as in any challenging situation we are faced with, there are ways which we can do to avoid being victimized by fraudulent acts.
Identity theft occurs when a person with hidden motives obtain an identification of another individual and uses it as it if it’s his own without proper authorization. The main goal here is financial gain. Apart from hacking passwords and personal identification numbers (PIN) via credit cards used during online transactions, identity theft can also be done through telephone tapping and listening to conversations.
Credit card holders should be responsible enough in using their cards to prevent leakage of vital personal information. A good way to start is by getting a copy of your credit report and checking for accounts that you may not own. Accounts unaware to you but included in your credit report is the first sign that may have been victimized by identity thieves.
Online identity theft can drain out the savings you have long accumulated through hard work. It can also adversely affect your credit history which can take you many years to repair. When doing online transactions, it’s best that you know and trust the person you’re dealing with considering that you’ll be providing vital information from your social security numbers, bank account numbers, credit card numbers and other personal information.
Experts advise that frequent web users should use a separate credit card just for the purpose of transacting business online. Also, if you’re one who regularly receives junk letters in your mailbox saying you have been approved for a new credit card, don’t just throw them right away in the trash. Always make it a point to rip them up in pieces or invest in a shredder. It’s important to note that there have been many cases of identity theft that occurred after the thief looked through the garbage for pre-approval letters and opened an account using another person’s name.
It’s also best to bring your mail directly to the post office. Leaving your important letters especially those containing check payment for bills may make you vulnerable to identity theft.
What your parents told you as a kid to “never trust strangers” still applies here. Don’t be afraid to ask questions when you are being asked for your personal information.
Develop the habit of keeping your credit cards, licenses, checkbooks and other important documents in a safe and locked area especially when you’re away from home.
Should you lose your credit card, report it immediately to the company’s customer service department.
Be wary of swindlers who may victimize you by saying you’ve won a certain amount or prize from a contest but need your personal information first. Remember that if you haven’t joined a contest such as a lottery or sweepstakes, why would you ever win?
A word caution about passwords: never write them on a piece of paper no matter how small and keep it in your wallet. Ensure that you memorize important passwords. When you surf online, as much as possible don’t allow computers to remember your email accounts and passwords.
Keep these tips in mind and you will feel confident doing business online any time even when using your credit cards.
Identity Theft Protection
