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Here are a few simple tips to help prevent identity theft.
1. Beware the Word “Prevent”
No person and no product can prevent identity theft. As long as
criminals can benefit from stealing, there will be theft. Sensitive
personal information (SPI) is everywhere, housed and archived in a
mind-boggling variety of ways. Individuals and companies can reduce
access to SPI and improve safeguards around it by working to change
how we share, collect, store and dispose of information.
2. There Are No Guarantees
This mantra holds true for a lot of things in life and dealing with
identity theft is no exception. While a number of instances of fraud
can be restored to pre-theft status, some identity dilemmas simply
can’t be fixed. If you’re on the ‘no fly list’ thanks to an imposter
or an error, you’ll stay there. A third-party solution cannot deliver
a remedy.
3. Watch for “Shoulder Surfers” and “Skimmers”
Shield the entry of personal identification numbers (PINs), and be
aware of people standing entirely too close by when using your credit
or debit card in public. Especially with the advent of cell phone
cameras, a sneaky, shoulder surfing thief can get your private
information pretty easily, if you’re not careful. It’s also advisable
to use teller machines that are familiar to you, so you are in a
better position to identify when the equipment looks different or
doesn’t “feel right.” Your increased awareness may reveal a skimmer’s
attempt to steal PINs and banking details at that site.
4. Keep Your Social Security Card Safe at Home
Unless you’re on your way to fill out a job application, there are
very few reasons to carry around the crown jewel of SPI. At lunch a
few weeks ago, the woman beside me opened her wallet for a credit card
and there was her Social Security card, too. Remember, ID theft and
fraud are not exclusively credit-related – thieves can use a clean
Social Security number to construct a whole new life.
Remember, when in doubt, throw it out!
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