How to Protect Yourself From Identity Theft
I was watching TV the other night and the nightly news had a report on how identity theft was the fastest growing crime there is. I was amazed but also did know of 4 clients that it happened to too. We put together a “tip” sheet for our own clients and thought we’d share those with you.
Tip #1 : Camera Phones – Be aware of who is around you when checking out at a grocery store, restaurant or retail store. Some of the camera’s are quite sophisticated and can capture your information in an instant.
Tip #2: Buy a “confetti” type of shredder and shred all your personal papers, including those “pre-approved” one’s you get in the mail.
Tip #3: Put passwords on all your accounts and do NOT use your mother’s maiden name or your personal birthday.
Tip #4: Empty your wallet of an extra credit cards and especially your social security number. Do Not carry your birth certificate or passport unless absolutely necessary.
Tip #5: Do NOT put your credit card information on the internet unless it is encrypted on a secure site.
Tip #6: Review your bank statement & credit card statement every month. Check to see if there is anything that you do not recognize and follow up with the bank or credit card company to get it corrected.
Tip#7: Best One Yet – Do NOT sign the back of your credit card, instead write “photo id required”. In most cases, anyone using your card illegally would have to provide that photo identification! (You’ll have to show it each time when asked).
Tom Larsen is President of Larsen & Associates, an independent insurance agency and can be reached at http://www.anarmoragent.com or 10waystosave@zipdrip.com
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