Identity Theft is No Joke

We have all seen the commercials on television about identity theft. And though we may find these commercials humorous, there is nothing funny about the crime of identity theft. Because all of us are potential victims, the risk of identity theft should be a concern for every person in the United States. New scams are carried out every day, and you could find yourself the next victim if protecting yourself from identity theft is not on your list of priorities.

Protecting yourself from the risk of identity theft is best achieved by guarding any personal data as if it were your most prized possession. We might not think of a social security number as a prized possession, but a thief sees it as a prize. Never leave any materials containing sensitive personal data exposed. Never use an ATM machine when someone is lurking close by. Finally, never give personal information out by telephone. A legitimate caller should be willing to send an application through the mail.

These are the more obvious forms of the risks of identity theft, but did you know that your mailbox can be stolen and combed for data or that your trash is a potential gold mine for criminals? Credit card applications and carelessly tossed out statements give criminals all the tools needed to apply for credit in your name, access your bank account or use your existing credit card numbers fraudulently. It is imperative that you make sure applications and financial statements are torn up and put into separate garbage containers.

Now is a good time to take stock of the risk of identity theft options available to you. Know what documents could be used by a criminal and guard them well. Protect yourself today.