How to Prevent Identity Fraud…

As technology improves, so does the skill of the modern day identity fraud. If you have ever been a victim, you know the chaos and damage that can be done, not only to one’s credit, but also, to one’s life and identity. So, how can someone prevent identity fraud? First and foremost, it is imperative to simply use common sense.  It is also important to educate yourself. Making the right decisions is the key to greater success.

Did you know that identity theft and identity fraud are two of the fastest growing crimes in the United States? Identity fraud is the illegal change of identity to another person or to a non-existing individual.  There are several steps that you can take to prevent becoming the victim of identity fraud.  First, it is important to keep your credit cards and other personal information in a safe location. Do not carry anything like social security cards or detailed account information in areas that can easily be accessed or stolen. Never give out personal information to unreliable sources and use caution when online. Be alert to any unknown callers or suspicious emails.  If in doubt, ask for verification. Always report any stolen items such as credit or bank cards, wallets, purses, or any personal information to the appropriate authorities. You should also shred all mail, account information, letters, or business transactions. Use extreme caution on social networking sites, when receiving spam, and be on the lookout for phishing emails and web links.

Finally, you should always thoroughly check all account activities to ensure that everything appears accurate. Report anything that may appear out of place or inconsistent. Also, frequently monitor your personal credit report.   By applying these simple tasks to your every day routine, you can proactively protect yourself and your family from identity fraud. If you do learn that your identity was stolen, make a report right away to the credit reporting companies, as well as to your credit and banking accounts. Any delay will only complicate the situation more.

Lastly you may want to consider using an identity theft service, such as Trusted ID, for further protection against identity fraud.