Avoid Identity Theft - It's Up To You

Before we look into how to avoid identity theft, let's see what identity theft refers to. Identity theft is usually defined as the situation where one person uses the name and personal details of another to appropriate gains. This could be anything from fraudulently using credit cards to usurping medical insurance, bank balances or committing other crimes in someone elses name.

Often, we are unaware of the extent that we leave a trail of private information behind us. This literally invites the criminally minded to pick it up and misuse it. Have you ever written your full name, phone and security numbers on the back of the pizza payment check? Well, think how many people would have access to that information before the check is deposited - delivery boy, manager, admin people.

Next, come the bank personnel who also have access to your account number. When you think about it it's easy to see how tempting it might be to know the details you have disclosed. If that check falls into the hands of an unscrupulous person, you will be left wide open to identity theft and your bank account could be cleared within minutes.

Tips to Avoid Identity Theft

Basically three words will do here – be very careful. If you are careful you will be able to avoid a number of pitfalls and effectively avoid identity theft.

Here are some simple guidelines:

i. Keep All Critical Information Concealed Do not write your driver license number or social security number anywhere so people can't copy it and use it. This is particularly important when it comes to checks. People tend to write all kind of identity information right on the back of checks. You should only give your phone number and if the bank needs further identification or verification, they will call you.

ii. Avoid Giving Out Information Over The Phone How do you know that the person at the end of the line is a genuine person? If the bank is calling you, ask the name of the person and inform that you will give the information in person, or send it through someone you authorize on your behalf.

iii. Be Careful Giving Out Financial Details Over The Internet If you are thinking of buying something over the internet, check out the website (name of the business) with the BBB or Better Business Bureau to see whether they are genuine. Also, look for the little padlock in the bottom right of your browser which to make sure the buying process is secure. Unless you do this, you might be feeding your financial information into a clone website. This is one of the most popular methods to steal people’s identity. So, be very careful about what you are doing and with whom you are interacting. This way you have a greater chance to avoid identity theft.

Tags: avoid-identity-theft, stop-identity-theft

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