IDENTITY THEFT PREVENTION

In the past few years not many crimes have increased as rapidly as Identity Theft, with the advances in technology criminals are finding  it easier and easier to get your information. So what can you do? Follow these tips to help protect yourself.

·        Retrieve your mail in a timely manner. If you are going to be away from home for a period of time have the Post Office hold your mail or have someone you trust pick it up.

·        Don’t write down your account numbers

·        Use a secure mailbox when available

·        Shred all financial documents, billing statements and pre-approved credit card offers before throwing them into the trash or recycling bin. Cross cut shredding is the best.

·        Pay bills online through a secure site

·        Memorize all your passwords

·        Examine all of your bank statements and credit statements for suspicious activity

·        Keep your personal information confidential. Only give this information to people you trust in a location where no one else can over hear.

·        Don’t give out your credit card information unless you are on a secure website

·        When at the ATM verify nobody is behind you while you are entering your PIN

·        Minimize the number of identification and credit cards you carry with you. Take only what is necessary in case your wallet or purse is stolen or misplaced.

·        Examine your credit reports from the major credit reporting firms at least once a year looking for any suspicious activity.

So what do you do if you suspect you are the victim of identity theft.

·        Call the Police Department at 920-746-2450

·        Check your bank accounts

·        Contact your bank and the credit reporting agencies

·        Work with your creditors

If you follow these tips you can help reduce the possibilities of being a victim to