Yes, they are determined to steal the identity of someone. But they would much prefer to go after those people who are easy targets. Take yourself off the easy hit list.



The first thing you should do is to get a free credit report. The report will show your existing creditors. Get the article entitled “Get A Truly Free Credit Report Every Four Months" or go to the annualcreditreport.com website and order your free report. If you do not recognize a creditor, do something immediately. Contact the credit bureaus fraud department and your local police.

If you feel the need to monitor your credit report you can find resources to do so at the http://credit-reporting-agencies-bureaus-agency-credit-reports.com/ website.

The next thing you should do is to lock up your personal papers. Secure all of your financial and personal information papers like bank statements, checks, credit card statements, pension reports, tax returns, birth certificates and related documents. Keep them out of sight.

When you dispose of personal papers you should use a shredder. Until you can get one, rip up the stuff and dispose of the remnants securely.

Secure your passwords. Everyone has a password of some kind. Write them down but do not keep them out in the open. Lock them up. When choosing passwords you should not use obvious things like birth dates or names of your spouse, children or maiden names.

Passwords should contain both letters and numbers and at least one capital letter.

One of my pet annoyances is receiving credit card offers in the mail. Much worse is getting blank checks for credit cards. Stop that nonsense by calling 1-888-5-OPT-OUT to get your name of their list.

Do not use automatic logins to computer networks. Imagine how much easier it would be for identity thieves to do damage with access to your email account. Online business is a great way time saver, but it is far too reliant upon email notifications as a safety feature.

When someone calls or emails you, do not give out your information. If you are buying something over the phone or internet you should be going to them. Be certain the number you are calling and the website you go to is the correct one.

When you leave home carry only what documents you need. A driver’s license, one credit card and some cash is all you usually need. Remember what you take with you in case it is taken from you or lost.

Be aware that you should keep your credit card in your possession or view at all times. When you hand your credit over to a cashier, keep it in sight and be sure it is swiped only once. You may be at risk if you give your credit card to a restaurant waiter. Either pay cash or accept the risk.

You will rest easier if you take these basic precautions.