How to Protect your Money & Identity

Identity theft is still on the rise. The thieves will wait & search, looking for the perfect victim, in the hopes that they will have their guard down and steal everything they own. Being smarter than the thieves is your best bet to protect yourself.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Shopping Online;
   Buy only from reputable retailers that use a secure website and data encryption. Only use your credit cards that have ID theft protection for all online purchases. Also, print & file records for all purchases.

2. Avoid using debit cards online & in stores;
   Debit cards are unprotected and remove money immediately out of your account. Which puts you in great risk of becoming a victim.

3. Check your mail;
   Most banks offer online statements for your accounts, opt out of regular mailing of monthly statements. Open everything and remove your name, address and any other personal details before discarding. This will include junk mail, credit card offers, magazines, catalogs and any bar codes.

4. Shred everything;
   By shredding everything that includes personal information, you are out smarting the thieves. However, not all shredders are equal, be sure to use a crosscut shredder. This shredder with cut vertically & horizontally, allowing you to discard safely.

5. Leave'em at home;
   When you are going shopping, do not take items you don't need. Such as; checkbook, extra credit cards or Social Security card. Take enough cash only to cover purchases or take one credit card. Never carry passwords or PINS.

6. 
    

   Do not look like a "Victim"
   Thieves prey on the weak and distracted. Know your surroundings at all times. Keep wallets in a secure and closed pocket & out of sight. When using a purse, wear the strap diagonally across your front. Your purse will not slip off very easily and you can keep it secure. Avoid hand-carried purses.

Tips & Warnings

• After any purchase, press the clear button
• Never discard any receipts when using a credit or debit card; even if it was only $2.00. Take home and shred.
• Check with your bank, most offer to opt out of receipts when you visit a A.T.M
• Never carry pictures you can not replace, you may not get them back if something does happen.
• Always recycle

Resources

• *** Ways to save your money ***
• *** More info on ID theft ***
• *** Tips for a child's financial future ***

[Ballzy]

on 1/15/2009 Thanks on the helpful security tips! It would be terrible if someone stole my social. Thanks for the great tips