How to avoid Identity Theft!

Last check around 2013 there were 13.1
million identity fraud victims.  In  fact my
daughters identity was stolen last year. So
that prompted me to write a blog post about
identity theft, in hopes of helping her get her
identity back! Maybe this can help you or
someone you know as well!

So let's get started!

Tip:

Get your free credit reports yearly(at www.annualcreditreport.com )

Tip 2:

Check your bank account twice a week.

Tidbit:

To track transactions, set up email or text alerts,
which most banks and creditors offer for free!

Tip 3:

Purchase identity theft protection!

Pricing starts around $10.00 per mo.

Don'ts:

Don't conduct business on public wifi.
If you tap into free wireless at cafes,
libraries' or elsewhere, set up different
complex passwords for each of your
financial or personal accounts. Download
a VPN(virtual personal network) app like
Hot Spot Shield to encrypt your data.

Don't:

Leaving financial documents visible is
most common sources of I.D. theft. Shred
unwanted mail, lock away statements that
you must keep. Put mail on hold when you
are on vacation, or away from home for some
time, cancel pre-approved credit card offers- go
here www.optoutpreescreen.com for more info!

Don't:

Allow access to your home technology.

Did you know?

That people can get your personal information
through the technology in your house? Yes
delivery people, service providers, even your
kids teenage friends can retrieve info through
your internet enabled T.V's, laptops, tablets,
and smart phones. "Password Protect" everything!

Don't:

Don't be careless when filling credit card applications.
It's tempting to sign up for store credit cards to get discounts
but it's best to use  a digital option because leaving vital
information with a clerk can be risky.

Don't leave your credit cards lying around.

Did you know?

That people looking over your shoulder at the ATM
can snap a photo. They can also snap a photo if you
leave your cards lying around.

Tip:

Cover up PIN pads and keep cards out of sight.

What's in your wallet?

Leave it at home: 

SS card
Passport
Health Insurance cards
Receipts w/ personal info
A list of pins and passwords

Safe to carry:

Drivers License
Debit Card
One or Two Credit Cards
A list of emergency contact numbers

That's all folks! I hope I've helped you
Avoid Identity Theft!

The Cheapskate Diva!