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The realization that identity theft was a real problem was brought to my attention when the son of a close friend went to purchase a car. When he applied for the car loan he was told that he had a credit problem and his loan request was denied. This was a complete surprise to him. As far as he knew his credit record was outstanding. He discovered he was a victim of identity theft! How You Can Avoid Becoming A Victim Of Identity Theftby: Alex Katz To reduce or minimize the risk of becoming a victim of Identity theft or fraud, there are some basic steps you can take. The most important one is to ask periodically for a copy of your credit report. This is crucial because it is the surest and quickest way to determine if someone is using your name. Your credit report should list all bank and financial accounts under your name, and will provide other indications of whether someone has wrongfully opened or used any accounts in your name. Any discrepancies should send up a red flag for you. Next, be careful about giving out your personal information to others unless you have a reason to trust them. Start by adopting a "need to know" approach to your personal data. Your credit card company may need to know your mother's maiden name, so that it can verify your Identity when you call to inquire about your account, but a person who instead calls you does not need to know that information. Also, limit the personal information you have on your bank checks. Be suspicious of someone who calls you on the telephone and offers you the chance to receive a credit card, for instance, and asks you for personal information. Request that he send you a written application form. If they refuse, tell them you are not interested and hang up. If you're traveling, have your mail held at your local post office or ask someone you trust to collect your mail while you are gone. Do not give out personal information when you are on the telephone in a public place where people can listen in to your conversation. Check your financial information (credit report) regularly, and look for what should be there and what shouldn't. And remember to ask periodically for a copy of your credit report. To obtain the excellent credit report service, avoid becoming a Victim of Identity Theft, get FREE online credit report, make your Credit Score higher or correct your credit visit Legalhelper ( http://www.legalhelper.ws ). Your credit score is important for obtaining credit. Your credit score is important to know, whether you need a new credit card, an auto loan, or a mortgage. Lenders use your credit scores to decide whether you are a good credit risk. If you have a high credit score, you are more likely to obtain the best rates.
About The Author
Alex Katz - Security Analyst The above is only a snippet to read the full article, click here!
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Site MenuMore ArticlesMy friend, who unfortunately discovered that he was a victim of identity theft, soon found that correcting the record was a major hassle. The lesson he learned was that it is better to prevent identity theft then to try and correct the record later. So with that mind, I present this information to you so that hopefully you will not become another identity theft victim. We often take our liberties for granted. What you know life to be can suddenly change if you've been a victim of identity theft. While you've been busy with your day-to-day life someone could have stolen your personal information and racked up debts or committed fraud - all with your name on it. What happens then can be anything from being denied employment, credit or even being arrested for a crime you didn't commit. Identity theft is that serious. Victims of identity theft can spend years paying back debts or fighting to restore their credit as well as their reputation. Finding out you are a victim of identity theft can be frightening and a source of anxiety even after you've resolved the issue. Don't be complacent, learn about identity theft and what you can do to lessen your changes of becoming another identity theft victim. |
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