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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! Tips to Avoid Identity TheftIdentity theft can be a stressful and aggravating experience should it happen to you. While you can't control certain situations that can lead to Identity theft such as unscrupulous business people, you can take some steps that will minimize your potential to falling victim to this crime that is becoming so common today. Each year, obtain a copy of your free credit report. The changes to the Fair credit reporting Act now requires each major national consumer reporting bureau to provide this information to you upon your request once each twelve months. Should a credit application, insurance or employment be rejected because of credit problems, you are entitled to another free report provided you request the report within 60 days of the denial. At any other time, you can purchase a copy of your credit report from the three major credit reporting bureaus: Equifax, Experian and Trans Union. If you choose to obtain a copy of your credit report, request that the printout contain only the last four digits of your social security number so that no one else can obtain that crucial number should they pick up the report. Password your credit card, bank and telephone accounts with information that is not easily linked to you. Your mother's maiden name is not a good choice; neither is your birthday, telephone number or consecutive numbers or letters. If you open a new bank account, ask them to allow you to use a password instead of your mother's maiden name. At home, keep all of your personal papers securely stored. These should be kept inside a lock area such as a file cabinet or safe. Even someone you employ in your home may not be the honest person you think they are. Keep personal information at your workplace just as secure as at home. Ask your employer what measures are taken to ensure your personal information is safe and secure. Ask the same question at your bank, businesses that have access to your personal information, doctor's offices and anywhere your personal information is known. Disposal processes are especially important because much Identity theft is accomplished by simply digging through the trash. When using the telephone, postal service or the Internet, be certain that you both initiate the contact and know exactly who you are speaking or communicating with, before giving out ANY personal information. Thieves have myriad means of getting you to give them the information they need. When disposing of old paperwork or mail, be cautious. Home shredder equipment has become quite inexpensive and can help protect you from someone going through your trash and finding personal information. When mailing anything that contains personal information that could be used as part of an Identity theft scheme, take the mail to a postal mail box or to the post office if your home mailbox is not a locked and secured box. Memorize your social security number and do not carry your card with you. Give the number out only when it is needed for a very valid reason. Don't allow the DMV to use your social security number as your drivers license number. 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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