Sunday, March 20, 2011

Protect Your Identity

Identity theft is among the most rapidly expanding consumer scams in our country.  The U.S. Department of Justice estimates that one person per minute has their identity stolen in the United States alone, and this can range from the low-tech pickpocket to high-tech computer scams and organized criminal activity.  The most common motivation of identity theft is to obtain credit in your name or access to your bank accounts.  In general, the criminal is looking to obtain your social security number, date of birth, mother's maiden name, and other commonly used information.  With this information they seek to penetrate your bank account or open credit lines.  How can you defend yourself?  In the next several articles we will offer some advice on how to protect and secure your personal information.

Protect your Social Security Number. 

First, don't carry your social security card in your wallet or purse.  Not only is it work to have it replaced if lost or stolen, but it gives a would-be identity thief direct access to your number.  Instead, keep it secured at home where you can take it out only when needed. 

Second, don't include your social security number on your personal checks or driver's license.  Rarely, would this information be needed on these items, and you cannot control who will see your checks once they are written.

Third, if a company wants to you use your social security number for an account number, request to have the account number changed.  This is true also for states which may use the social security number for a driver's license.  We suggest writing down this account number and keeping it secure, since when asked for your social security number as an account, you will have changed it.

Fourth, if you have to carry your social security card for a special meeting, keep it separate from your wallet or purse.

Fifth, never send your social security number through electronic means or write it on a postcard as a means of communication.

Many forms ask for your social security number because it is an effective way for creditors to track down people who become delinquent.  However, you have the right to refuse to give this personal information. For more information we suggest you consult the Social Security Administration at: www.ssa.gov/ssnumber/.


Until next time...Be Safe


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