20 Identity Theft Prevention Tips 

Identity theft is rampant and is a very real threat against your good name, your credit score, your time and energy, and most especially your   peace of mind. 



The question is no longer, "Do I need identity theft prevention services?"  the more logical question, and one that is easy to answer is, "How do I protect myself?"  Here are 20 identity theft prevention tips that will help you retain your good name:

1) Shred all personal documents, including credit card offers that come in the mail.

2) Do not carry all your personal information in your purse or wallet.

3) Check your credit reports regularly

4) Do not store PIN numbers, passwords, and the like on your computer.

5) Be cautious about using file-sharing software.

                + store your information on a different computer
                + encrypt your information
                + don't use file-sharing software

6) Shop only on secure websites if you shop online

                + look for the initials https at the beginning of the URL
                + look for a locked padlock at the bottom of the screen
                + look for the symbol of an unbroken key

7) Use caution when you give out your social security number

                + online stores should never need your SS#
                + no one from a legitimate company would ever call you and ask for your SS#

8) Use credit cards rather than debit cards when purchasing online

9) Be careful when using "electronic signatures" or "e-signing"

10) Check over your credit card statements when they arrive

11) Guard your ATM/Debit cards

12) Remember that ATM cards that act as debit cards can be used without a PIN in a lot of stores and other places

13) If you travel, use the in-room safe for your personal information or leave it at home

14) Lock up your laptop in the safe, too

15) Don't talk about anything on a cell phone in public that you wouldn't want plastered all over a billboard; people can hear you!

16) When applying for jobs, do not give out your social security number online or put it on your resume; ditto for driver's license number.

17) Do not use your real full name on Internet blogs

18) Do not post your personal information anywhere online

19) Do not put your picture online

20) Keep anti-virus software on your computer, and keep it up to date

As you can see, there is a huge list of ways to prevent identity theft; that is because identity robbers are getting more clever every day.  What may be the best advice ever is to realize that you need identity theft prevention services.  Ask yourself the question "Is my good name safe?"  The answer to that question, unfortunately, is no. 

If you are also asking yourself, "Where can I purchase identity theft protection?" the answer is easier than you think.  There are reputable companies online, and they will not ask you to reveal too much over the Internet.  

Do a little research online, and you will discover that there are reliable and effective companies that can help protect you from this ever-growing crime.

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Stolen Identities - Do I Need Identity Theft Fraud Protection?