Is Your Identity Safe?
We know identity theft is increasing as are all types of crimes. As time get tougher these crimes always increase. We can not achieve self reliance or maintain it, if someone else is controlling our finances through identity theft. There are steps to take and now is the time to take them.
- Check your credit report at least twice a year. Check with all three of the credit agencies: Experian, Equifax and TransUnion. Review all the personal information on all three of the credit reports. Check for accuracy, credit accounts you didn’t open, loans, or any other transactions you didn’t authorize. Report any inaccuracies to each of the credit agencies and the police immediately. A fraud alert will be added to your account for 90 days so be sure to notify anyone you are applying for a loans with about the alert. Check back after the 90 days to be sure there are no charges after that date. Don’t assume the person stealing your identity has gone away.
- Be careful when using the ATM. If something feels wrong leave and return later. Never allow anyone to stand behind you when you are completing a transaction. Never carry your PIN code in your wallet. If your wallet is stolen wiping out your account is simple.
- Check your bills. Whether receiving your bills electronically or mail box at the street you are susceptible to identity theft. Check each statement to make sure you can account for every charge. If any seem strange or unfamiliar contact the company immediately.
- Check your bank statements carefully. Thieves can steal a check, or account number or even you debit card password and wipe you out. Again, anything that look suspicious investigate immediately.
- Contact the creditor of any fraudulent account or charge by phone, explain the situation and immediately have the account closed. They should open a new account for you with no problem at the same time. Follow up by contacting them in writing. Keep a list of all account numbers and phone numbers in a safe place where they can be accessed quickly in case they are needed.
- If you discover fraud contact the Federal Trade Commission and file a complaint. File complaint at: www.ftccomplaintassistant.gov.
- Call immediately if a bill or statement is late. If one looks as though it has been opened call immediately.
- Save yourself the hassle and:Never give you social security number, bank account number, credit card number, PIN number or password to anyone over the phone. Never. No reputable company or bank will ever ask.
Mail all your mail at a post office or drop box, never by leaving it in your mailbox.
If you are leaving town for more than a day have the post office hold your mail.
Install anti virus and sky ware on all computers.
Don’t throw bank statements, bills containing account numbers, credit card statements, credit card invitations, voided checks, pay stubs, tax forms (including your work sheets) or ATM transaction receipts in the trash. Shred or burn them.
Prepare today so you won’t be sorry tomorrow.
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Back issues: Totally Ready Newsletters July 2009- June 2010
My discussion with Doctor Prepper all about food storage part 1. .http://www.blogtalkradio.com/doctorprepper/2010/07/08/doctor-prepper-show
Doctor Prepper show all about food storage part 2. http://www.blogtalkradio.com/doctorprepper/2010/07/20/doctor-prepper-show
Talk with Halli: food storage and current financial outlook. http://www.blogtalkradio.com/idahotalk/2010/07/16/hfalli-friends
I am a victim of identify fraud and it finally is all settled now, an entire year later. I couldn’t believe how much work it took to clean up even though all four people who used things in my wallet were caught and did prison time. The thieves stole my wallet and in about 30 hours did tons of damage. It made matters worse when I forgot about an old card tucked in a little compartment in my wallet. The card was for an electronics store and I hadn’t used it in years. There is no reason I should have still had it and been carrying it. My biggest advice to people is KNOW WHAT IS IN YOUR WALLET!! DON’T CARRY WHAT YOU DON’T NEED! Because I forgot about this card and didn’t cancel it, the bandits were able to use the card for three days and charged 8,000 dollars on it. It was really a mess and I still have bad dreams about it, it was so violating.
I am so sorry! Thanks for sharing your experience and what great advice. I hope others will share as I know this crime is increasing and I suspect as times get tougher it will only get worse. Thanks again.
Terrific Article, thank you.