Be Aware of the Identity Theft Traps

Most identity thieves are targeting your social security number, your bank account, credit card information and all the corresponding PINs and passwords. A person intent on stealing your identity is hard to thwart. Nevertheless, there’s still lots you can do to protect yourself.

Keep the following tips in mind if you want to make sure you’re as protected as you can be.

1. Personal computer: These days, it’s ridiculously easy for someone to hack into your computer files from anywhere in the world. Software that prevents viruses and software from attacking your computer is crucial to your safety. And don’t forget a firewall. \As well, identity theft software is becoming increasingly popular among people who are nervous about their privacy. If you want to keep your data protected, your best bet is to create strong passwords. It should be at least eight to ten characters in length. Both numbers and letters should be part of it. And it shouldn’t be something easy to crack like your birthday or anniversary.

2. Trash: If it goes in the garbage, it must be completely unimportant. But the fact is that thieves often dig through trash cans to obtain any kind of personal details that can be used to assume your identity. And that also includes all those pre-approved credit card offers, so be certain that everything is shredded before it hits the trash can.

3. Mail: For many people, it would never even cross their mind to lock their mailbox. But your mailbox is a prime target for someone who’s after your personal information. Think about all the financial documents that are sent to your home via the mail. Imagine what an identity thief can do if he gets hold of your statements from the bank or credit card company.

4. Lockers: Making sure your locker is well secured if it contains your purse or wallet is a critical part of identity theft protection. It’s not just the locker at the gym either, it’s also the one where you work. When you use your own lock instead of one provided by the facility, the thief won’t have access to the extra key.

5. Wallet or purse: Keep these items close to you at all times. The purse or wallet of just about everyone has more than enough information for an identity thief to achieve his purposes. This includes your credit cards, checkbook, and bank card, not to mention any PINs you’ve written down.

6. Personal information: Be cautious of giving out any personal details. Sometimes you’ll get a request for personal information that appears to be from a company that you deal with. In reality, it could just as easily be an identity thief impersonating an employee of that organization. It can take place both on the internet and on the telephone. Sometimes it’s just too automatic to provide personal details in these situations.

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