What are these top 5 identity theft preventions? Take a look at the following to find the answer.
The first thing to keep in mind is that you must be familiar on what personal information should be kept private. While some personal information is unavoidably going to be made public, there are some items which are very personal and sensitive, that these should never be made public .
For instance, full name, address and phone numbers are low sensitivity information; birthplace, mother’s maiden name and date of birth are moderately sensitive info, while Social Security Number, bank account number, credit card number and PIN or Password are high sensitivity kinds of information, which must be secured, for you to keep your identity from being stolen.
Identity theft prevention importantly involves protecting this personal information, particularly the high sensitivity items. Anyone with knowledge of just one of these high sensitivity infos may result to a lot of damage. Part of the battle of preventing identity theft is recognizing how this personal information is hacked and from where it is actually stolen.
Should you ever become a victim, here are top five identity theft preventions that are best to do and effective for ensuring your own safety.
- When you get to discover that one of your credit cards or debit cards is missing, contact the issuing bank immediately, even if you think you may find it in a day or two. “Prevention is better than cure” is also very applicable in protecting your identity. Most banks will immediately cancel your missing card and reimburse you for any false charges. Most often than not, you’ll receive a new card in the mail within a week.
- Unfortunately, there is a very common mistake that people do. Many people find it comfortable for them to place their social security card in their wallet, only to find the said card lost or stolen. In this case, the thief now has everything he/she needs to steal your identity — name and address from your driver’s license, credit cards and debit cards, and social security number. Instead of carrying your social security card in your wallet, its better to keep it in a safe place, at hoem for instance.
- It is easy for a hustler thief to pretend that he/she is a legitimate caller over the phone. So always think twice and be doubtful before providing your credit card over the phone. If you do provide your credit card number on phone, be sure that you were the one who called. Better yet, opt out of these telemarketing calls entirely.
- Avoid going to the ATM late at night and always be sure no one is looking over your shoulder when you are entering your PIN. Also, don’t let a stranger help you from withdrawing your money.
- Just when you thought you’re in your home doesn’t mean you’re safe. If you have roommates or employ outside help, such as a housekeeper, refrain from leaving your mail just lying anywhere, and secure your privacy when making any personal phone calls.
