How to Keep Your Social Security Number Safe
With identity theft as one of the fastest growing crimes in America it's very important that you keep your social security number (SSN)and personal information safe.
Once an identity thief has your SSN they can then apply for credit cards and other forms of credit in your name. Often you won't even know that there's a problem until you are either turned down for a loan or you start receiving bills from unknown creditors, and by then it's to late. This article on how to keep your social security number safe will help you to avoid identity theft.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Keep an eye on your credit report. Everyone is guaranteed one free credit report a year but the best way to keep an eye on your credit report is to check it approx. once every four months. Or you could also think about enrolling in one of the many credit monitoring services available.
-
2
It's very important to invest in a good antivirus antispyware program.This is unfortunately one area where many people are lacking, but when it comes to your identity you really don't want to cut costs. I've used several different programs but my personal favorite is Vipre. It's one of the better programs available and at just under $50 is actually quite affordable.
-
-
3
Keep personal papers and your social security card in a safe place like a locked safe. Many people tend to keep their social security card in their purse or wallet. And this is the last place that you want to keep it, purses and wallets after all can be stolen. And you could quite easily find yourself a victim of identity theft.
-
4
Be sure to shred all personal and financial documents as well as credit card offers before discarding anything. Because you just never know who might be going through your trash.
-
5
Be sure to change passwords often and don't use the same passwords for different sites. If you have a problem remembering your passwords then by all means write them down and keep the list in a safe place. Storing your passwords on your computer is never a good idea.
-
6
Never give out your personal info on unsecured websites. The address of a secure website will start with https instead of http, also you should be able to see a key or closed padlock in the status bar.
-
7
Don't give your social security number or other personal information out over the telephone or through email. Doing so could put you at risk for identity theft.
-
1
