Identity Theft
What is Identity Theft? - - Identity theft is the illegal use of someone’s identification usually for financial gain.
The first step to Identity Fraud.
Things you can do to safeguard your identity:
Put a “Security Freeze” your credit reports with the following credit reporting agencies: Experion, Transunion, Innovis, National Consumer Telecommunications and Utilities Exchange and Equifax.
The Security Freeze is free, and it can be completed on-line or over the phone. Save your login and password information. If you are applying for a credit card or loan, ask the loan grantor what reporting agency they use so you can go online and take the freeze off. You can do this any time of day. If you call the credit reporting agency, they usually practice regular business hours. Don’t forget to put the freeze back on. There is Identity theft prevention software that can be purchased, which is a type of prevention. The software is heavily marketed, but the claims of use are exaggerated.
Look at your credit report at least once a year. Some credit reporting agencies let you check it for free once a year.
Put a lock/freeze on your social security number at (e-verify). It lasts a year, then you are notified when the lock expires. There are laws protecting your social security number. Do not give it out. Guard your social security number. Your social security card should be kept in a safe deposit box or in a safe.
Either use a PO box or a locking mailbox.
If you want to get locking mailbox, talk to your local Post Office and they will help you arrange the set-up of the locking mailbox (on your dime of course).
Shred, Shred, Shred!
Anything that has your name, address, or account number, etc., even junk mail – tear off the page with your name and address and shred it.
Get your own VPN (Virtual Private Network) service for your computer, phone, and any other devices along with anti-virus software on your computer (s).
Do not use open wi-fi (airport, restaurant) unless you have your own VPN. Keep your computer updated so that you have the latest security measures in place.
Two-step verification login should be used on all your investment and banking accounts, or any other accounts that have your personal information.
Use strong and unique passwords.
Break it, and I mean big time!
Before you recycle your computer or printer, make sure you destroy the hard drive.
If you have a Business bank account (not a personal/consumer account), do not use an ATM card for purchases.
It’s easy for merchant employees to gain access to your bank account through your ATM card. Consumer laws DO NOT cover business account losses, meaning, you cannot get your money back! To replace the convenience of an ATM card, get a business credit card, and have your business account auto pay it every month.
Lock up important papers, credit cards, passport and any identification paperwork or cards when not in use.
Do not put your personal data on social media platforms and make the data public, keep it personal, there is a choice.
Limit what you carry in your wallet/purse.
Carry your driver’s license, bank card/credit card and medical/Medicare card. If you have an old Medicare card with your social security number on it, either lock it up or get a new card; the new cards are issued without social security numbers.