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6 Easy Steps To Prevent Identity Theft
It can be as simple as lost wallet or as complex as hacked database. No matter the cause, identity theft can leave you crippled financially as you battle back and forth with your creditors. By remaining vigilant and practicing strong common sense, you can save yourself from the hassle and heartache of stolen consumer credit information. Don’t be a victim; seek credit help. Here are six simple things you can do to avoid identity theft and the painful loss of credit card information:
1. When ordering checks, have your bank list only your first and middle name initials on new checks. A thief may not know if you sign your checks with your full name or initials, but your bank will. Discrepancies such as this send up a red flag to bankers and can cause immediately inquiry.
2. Never sign your name on the back of your credit card. Instead, write "PHOTO ID REQUIRED" on the back of the card. Credit cards are an easy way for thieves to learn not only your name and card number but also your signature, making forgery simple.
3. When paying a credit card bill by check, avoid writing the full credit card number in the "memo" line. Use only the last 4 numbers of your card number. Since the number will be in full on the statement sent with your payment, you need not risk granting check handlers access to your vital information.
4. Never have your Social Security Number or home address printed on your checks. Instead, use a P.O. Box or work address.
5. Always know exactly what you have in your wallet. The best way to do this is to simply photocopy the contents, ensuring that you get both back and front of any credit card, operator's license, or identity document. Keep this photocopy in a safe place where it can easily be located by both you and your significant other if traveling. Never carry the copy with you!
6. Some hotels issue electronic key cards rather than traditional keys to open room doors. If you receive one of these cards, know that all of your vital consumer credit information may be encoded onto it. This includes your address, phone number, and credit card number with expiration date. Instead of turning the card in when checking out of the hotel, destroy it. It should be included in the price of your room anyway. By turning the card in, any dishonest employee with access to a card reader can steal your consumer credit information.
While these credit help tips may protect your information in certain circumstances, remain aware of your surroundings and use caution when making transactions. This, combined with performing periodic credit checks, may be your best bet for staying safe from identity thieves. By protecting your address, signature, social security number, and credit card numbers, you can make sure your identity remains your own.
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Did you know?
 Lenders consider more than just your credit score when deciding whether or not to extend credit. They consider the amount of debt you can handle given your income, your employment history, your credit history, as well as staying within their institutional underwriting policies.
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