1. Safeguard your date
Don't carry your social security card around with you; keep them in a safe deposit box. If it appears on other cards, keep them separate from your wallet. Never email your SSN and don't give it out just because you're asked. You do need to include it on paperwork, but it is often requested unnecessarily. When in doubt, leave the line blank.
Shred personal documents and anything containing personal information, from preapproved credit offers to junk mail. Product registration cards or customer surveys can be used by marketers to get information about you, which can be stolen.
2. Take extra care with plastic
Anytime you use a card, there's a risk someone could steal your information. You must report fraudulent charges on your credit and debit cards. Regularly check your back account and activity. Don't use your cards with shady-looking vendors or on suspicious websites.
3. Monitor your credit
You have the right to check your credit score for free once a year. Use annualcreditreport.com. Check all the info, including birth dates and street addresses. Incorrect information can indicate identity theft.
4. Jump on any problems
If you spot fraudulent charges or accounts, act immediately. First, go to each of the three credit bureaus' websites and place fraud alerts on your credit reports. This advises credit card companies and banks not to grant new credit in your names without your express consent. Second, file a local police report. Third, call the fraud department of any accounts that you didn't open or that have been tampered with. Close the accounts and explain the situation. You'll be asked to fill out a fraud affidavit and submit a copy of your police report. This helps build your case that the charges aren't yours--since card companies won't just take your word for it. Finally, file an online complaint with the Federal Trade Commission. Experts there will refer you to various resources that can assist you in fully freezing your credit, proving that fraud has occurred and cleaning up the aftereffects, such as a ruined credit rating or a bad driving record.
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