By
eHow Personal Finance Editor
Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Things You’ll Need:
Step1
Be extremely protective of your PIN numbers, especially at ATMs. Try to memorize your PIN number, but if you have to write it down, don't write it on your ATM card or leave it in your wallet or purse.
Step2
Change passwords often.
Step3
Remove mail from your mailbox promptly. If you suddenly stop receiving mail, call the post office immediately. Crooks can forge your signature to have your mail forwarded elsewhere, then obtain information that will allow them to apply for credit in your name.
Step4
Refuse to give your credit card number or other personal information to an unsolicited caller.
Step5
Tear up or shred credit card receipts, unused loan applications and any other items with personal information before throwing them into the trash. Thieves often go through garbage.
Step6
Obtain a copy of your credit report regularly to check for fraudulent accounts and other information. Report all errors to the credit bureau.
Step7
Report stolen credit cards immediately.
Step8
Take the time to carefully review all of your bank and credit card statements and other bills. Report any inconsistencies at once.
Comments
SaraHaley said
on 7/23/2008 Here are some more articles about identity theft protection:
http://www.ehow.com/how_4434887_protect-yourself-identity-theft.html
http://www.ehow.com/how_4434892_purse-stolen-identity-theft-big.html
http://www.ehow.com/how_4434890_protect-identity-wallet-purse-stolen.html
http://www.ehow.com/how_4434884_protect-child-identity-theft.html
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Anonymous said
on 4/1/2006 I'm too cheap to buy a shredder, and I am scared to throw all these offers/checks in the garbage for fear of garbage fishers. So I make three piles, and tear each offer into 3 pieces, each going to one pile. Then I grab each pile in my fist and wet it under the tap, squeeze it, toss it in the kitchen garbage bag (containing food). Believe me this is quicker than you imagine.