Identity theft is running rampant and one only has to read the headlines to find yet another case where someone’s personal information has been compromised.  The stories are heartbreaking and we all hope that we do not find ourselves in similar circumstances.  There are some things that you can do to prevent your personal information from being stolen.  Here are some simple, basic steps to protect yourself and prevent identity theft.

1.  Keep quiet about your personal information.  This first rule, while very simple, is one of the best safeguard measures.  Do not give out your social security number over the telephone or any other personal information unless you are the one who initiated the contact.  Even then, make sure you know for certain who you are speaking with and how your information will be used.   

2.  Stay aware when using your debit card or making ATM purchases.  Be sure you are not being watched while entering account or PIN numbers when making purchases or withdrawing money.  Cover the keypad with one hand.  Some criminals are using sophisticated techniques including using their cellphones to capture personal information while you are entering it.

3.  Shred all documents that contain personal information.   Whenever you are throwing out credit card receipts, canceled checks, old bank statements,  preapproved credit card offers, or any other item which contains your financial information on it use a shredder.  Identity theft thieves will dig through dumpsters looking for personal information to use.

4.  Be vigilant in monitoring your bank statements and credit card statements.   Be alert to any activity that is questionable or that you are not responsible for.  If you find something wrong, immediately call your bank and put a hold on your accounts.  Most banks and credit card companies will not hold you financially responsible for purchases or withdrawals you haven’t made or authorized, but you must let them know as quickly as possible. 

5.   Practice computer safety.  Install firewall software on your computer, which is probably the most important thing you can do to protect yourself from online identity theft.   This makes it very difficult for someone to hack into your computer and steal your personal information.  Even if you spend little time on your computer, you will want to be certain it is as safe as possible, so invest in firewall software.

6.  Beware of spam.  Spammers have become quite good in using different methods for obtaining personal information.  Their emails seem quite official but don’t let yourself be deceived.  A good rule of thumb is to never click on a link in an email that is asking for updated financial information or any other type of personal information.   If you feel the email could be genuine, go to the website directly, not through a link that may redirect you to a phony website. 

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