Is it really possible to prevent identity theft? The answer is
both yes and no. Let us make a comparison between identity theft
and somebody who attempts to break into your house. Can you stop
somebody who will break into your house? Of course, you will do
everything to make it difficult for him. You will be installing
alarms, locks and cameras for security purpose. You hire the
services of armed guards and some experts in security.

With the above mentioned preparations, is there any possibility
that somebody will be able still to house break? Certainly, if
that somebody is full of determination, armed with sophisticated
weapons and outnumbering your guards. This has been shown many
times in the movies.

It is really the same thing with identity theft prevention. You
will do something to make it more complicated to somebody, yet
there is no guarantee that you will not be the next victim but
at least you will minimize the risk. Just be cautious in
managing your personal information and with total awareness, you
will be able to be on guard against identity theft. What is
important is to be prepared always and be clever always and on
your guard.

There is really a need to be aware of the increasing number of
cases on identity theft. It is due maybe to the comparatively
low risk, high reward stake given to criminals. All they will
have to do is to get your Social Security Number and some pieces
of data which are taken easily. Then, they will assume your
identity and commit credit deception. It’s a pity for the
victims because they will spend so much money time draining
ordeal which will create financial and emotional distress.

Below are the tips for identity theft prevention.

1. Always give protection to your Social Security Number. Do not
place your Social Security Number in your wallet or let it be
printed on your checks. It is the main object of criminals.

2. Be aware of shoulder-surfers. Make sure nobody is looking
over your shoulder when you enter a pin number or a credit card
number at an ATM machine, or in a phone book.

3. Everything must be shredded. You should keep your identity from
being thrown into the garbage can.

4. Instead of signing the backs of your credit cards, just write
“See Photo ID”.

5. Be sure to destroy all digital data.

6. You should be diligent in checking statements. Bills and bank
statements must be checked properly.

7. Go to the post office when paying your bills. Do not leave your
paid bills in the mailbox to be sent out. They will be stolen.

8. It is better to limit information on your checks.

9. You should analyze your credit report every year. It has your
Social Security Number, present and prior employers, the list of
all your account numbers, including those you have closed and
your general credit score.

10. Your computer must be free from viruses and spies.

11. If you are going to shop online, be sure to check first the
website before entering your credit card number or any personal
information.

12. Always monitor your credit history.

13. Do not hesitate to ask questions whenever you are asked
about personal information which is not connected to the
transaction.

14. You should not be influenced by pre-approved credit offers.

15. Do not bring with you additional credit cards or other
important personal identity documents unless necessary.

16. Ask for your Social Security Earnings and Benefits statement
every year so as to check for deception.

17. You should examine first the charges on your credit card
statements before you pay.

18. All unused credit card accounts must be cancelled
immediately.

19. Don’t ever give your credit card number or any personal
information when using the phone except when you trust that
business or you started the phone conversation.

20. Make a subscription to a credit report monitoring service so
that you will be notified in case somebody applies for credit
using your name.

21. Do not be afraid to question the identity of the people and
companies which will initiate contact with you through
email, mail, telephone or even in person.

22. Don’t leave your wallet or purse unattended most especially
in the church, place of work, restaurants, parties or on
trolleys for shopping.

Notify the bank immediately if you did not receive any
statement.

About the author:

Author: Josiah Walter

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