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Anyone Can Fall Victim To Identity Theft
Identity theft can happen to anyone. Unfortunately, when someone obtains your personal information -- social security number, driver's license number, or other information -- they can steal your financial records, your background information and/or your medical history. The thieves can use this stolen information to open credit cards, bank loans and checking accounts. They can even use it to get jobs and health insurance.
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TOP SHELF TIP NO. 19
"You cannot plough a field by turning it over in your mind."
Author unknown | |
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As a victim of identity theft, you pay the price by having loans and job opportunities denied, losing your good name or even getting arrested for a crime you did not commit. It's a stressful and frustrating experience that can take weeks, months and even years to clear -- and can cost you hundreds, even thousands of dollars.
Fortunately, you can take steps to lower your chances of being an identity theft victim. This week Promotional Consultant Today will be looking at several guidelines you can follow to help prevent identity theft. Yesterday we looked at lightening your wallet and shredding documents. Today we'll tackle your personal information, your computer and marketing lists.
Guard Your Personal Information
Never give out personal information over the phone, via the mail, or on the internet unless you have an established relationship with the company.
If you get a phone call, letter, or e-mail from a company you know -- be cautious. Most companies won't ask you for personal information when they initiate the communication.
If it's a phone call, politely tell the person you'll call the customer service department back at the number you have on file and will discuss the matter with them at that time. Do not call back on the alternate number the person on the line gives you.
Likewise, if you get a letter from a company and they ask you to fill out some personal information and then mail it back in the enclosed envelope, don't do it. Call the company at the number you have on file and ask if the mailing is legitimate.
Finally, never click on links you get in an e-mail from a company. Go to the actual web site by typing the company's address into your internet address bar, or better yet, call the company about the e-mail. Few companies will ever ask for your personal information via e-mail.
Protect Your Computer And Email
Install firewalls and virus protection on all your computers, and keep any protection program current by doing the recommended updates.
These products will prevent hackers from getting into your hard drive and stealing your information. They'll also stop worms and viruses from forcing your computer to transmit private information to others.
Remove Your Name
If you're tired of all the pre-approved credit offers you get in the mail, rest assured that you can reduce or even eliminate the numbers of mailings you get.
Realize that thieves open mailboxes and grab these pre-approved offers. They then use them to open lines of credit in your name. To get your name off the mailing lists, click here or call 1-888-567-8688.
By providing some basic information, you can elect to opt out of these offers for a period of five years, or forever.
Tomorrow we'll look at tracking your credit and bank information, as well as discuss what to do if you are a victim of identity theft.
--Source: Douglas Charney, senior vice president Investments with Wachovia Securities in Harrisburg, PA. Wachovia Securities, LLC, Member NYSE & SIPC, is a separate affiliate of Wachovia Corporation C2007 Wachovia Securities, LLC. | |
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Copyright 2005-2007 Promotional Consultant Today. All Rights Reserved. |
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