How to Protect One's Self From Identity Theft
Identity theft affects millions of individuals each year. The Javelin Strategy & Research Center's 2009 study shows that the number of 2008 identity theft victims has increased by 22 percent from the previous year. Identity theft can adversely affect your life and those of your family. Though there is no guarantee that you will not be affected by identity theft, certain steps and precautions can improve your chances of safety.
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Instructions
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Protecting Your Information
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Protect your identifying information. Items such as your social security number, date of birth and employment identification numbers should be kept private. Never share these items with individuals in which it does not pertain. Never carry your social security card in your wallet or purse. If your health insurance card includes your social security number, store the information away with your social security cards. Be cautious when giving out your personal information. Before giving out the information, inquire why the company needs it, what they will do with it and what steps the company takes to protect your information. Never give out your personal information to an incoming caller. If the information is needed to complete a business transaction, tell the caller you will call them back. Use a verified contact number and call the party back before providing the information. Verified contact numbers can be found on business correspondence and letterhead.
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Use preventative steps when discarding mail and trash. Fraud victims are often attacked through the use of mail and trash. Shred any correspondence and paper that includes your account information, previous addresses, social security numbers or other sensitive information that can provide access to your accounts and history. This should also include your parent's maiden name information, old car registrations and plates and even items you consider to be junk mail. When mailing items that include your personal information, deposit the items at the local post office or present the items to your postal carrier. Avoid using unsecured mailboxes. Have the post office hold your mail when you are away for extended periods. Never let your mail sit in your mailbox for long periods of time.
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Protect yourself when online. Never give out your personal information to unwarranted websites and unknown email senders. If you receive email requests from your account providers, do not click the links within the email. Visit the site directly using your log-in information, or contact the company using a verified contact number, to follow up on the email request. When paying or purchasing online, verify that the website is using a secure connection. The website will begin with https://, and a lock icon will appear at the bottom, right-hand corner of the page. Always use intricate password combinations that do not involve or include words that are easily associated with you. Avoid writing down passwords. However, if you choose to keep a written copy of your passwords, store the information in a secure place along with your other personal information, such as social security cards and account information.
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