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Step 1
Know what information to protect to prevent identity theft fraud. Learning how to stop identity theft can save you a lot of money and heartache later. Knowing what information has the highest risk level is an important step. Learn ways to stop identity theft now.
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Step 2
Keep these things safe. Social Security Number, Bank Account Number, Credit Card Number, and
PIN or Password. These are all high risk information. Protect these and your can protect yourself from identity theft. -
Step 3
You're mail is your first line of defense in stopping identity theft. Don't leave your outgoing mail sit out in your mailbox all day. This is an easy way for thieves to steal information. If you are gone for the weekend, have your neighbor pick up your mail and store it in their house. Thieves love nothing more than a mailbox full of mail.
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Step 4
Thieves can also use your computer to steal valuable information. Make sure that you have the latest anti-virus and anti-spyware software. Make sure to secure your wireless connection if you have one. Avoid phishing emails. Be wary of any email that asks you to provide login information. No companies ever send out these types of emails.
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Step 5
Don't throw away your bank statements in your trash. I used to do this all the time and I realized how much of a risk to identity theft this was. Anything that has information on it should be shredded or burnt. This includes credit card statements, atm transactions, canceled or voided checks, pay stubs, bills, and tax forms. Make sure that you get a good crosscut shredder to ensure that thieves cannot retrieve any information.
Comments
ruf1950 said
on 6/25/2009 Great advice on preventing identity theft. Keep up the great writing :). 5*****