Crucial Steps That Can Help You Protect Yourself From Identity Theft - loos987/icontent GitHub Wiki
Identity theft has affected millions of people worldwide and is about someone else assuming identity in entirety. It is a very serious issue that can actually ruin your finances, reputation and even credit scores if you are unfortunately a victim to it. The fact is that you perhaps not have your ID stolen yet, but you perhaps are already aware of the fact that someone you know has suffered from this crime. Just like any other issue, it is recommended to take precautions so that you can keep yourself protected rather than trying to fix the situation when it has already happened. And luckily with identity theft, there are some very simple steps that can help you keep yourself safe.
Carry Only What You Need In Your Purse or Wallet
Mostly pep eave a tendency of stashing all of their important items in their purses and wallets. Whereas it perhaps be a convenience, you risk a lot if you end up losing your wallet. Avoid carrying all the crucial items like social security cards and their passwords in your wallet and instead keep them safe at home. It also helps not to carry all of your credit cards and also never carry their PIN for any ATM or credit cards you have.
Shred All Your Documents Containing Sensitive Information Before Disposing Them Off
Financial documents and paperwork should not be left lying around but should be disposed in the right way. This is because most of the identity thieves use such methods to steal your personal details. In case you have no control over disposal like in your office settings, then ensure you use a paper shredder to keep all your details protected. Documents that you should be extremely careful disposing includes invoices, bills, credit card solicitations, tax forms and loan applications.
Keep An Eye On Your Credit Report and Scores
This is one of the best means of getting warnings that you perhaps have had your identity stolen. Loan accounts and new credit cards that you did not open along with names and addresses, multiple credit inquiries from different companies you are not even related to are all clues that you have become a victim of social security theft.
Choose Strong Username and Passwords For Your Online Accounts
It is something that most people overlook, yet it can go a very long way in keeping your identity protected. It is actually advisable that you should avoid using similar username and passwords for all online accounts you have. Keep changing your passwords regularly and always choose strong ones every time you, as it is very useful in making it harder for the thieves to crack and gain complete access to your accounts.