What are steps that I can take to reduce the risk of identity theft?
• Keep your Social Security card in a secure place and give out the number only when necessary. Ask to use other identifiers whenever possible. • Guard your purse or wallet. Never put either one down unless your hand is connected to it. • Limit the number of checks and debit / credit cards you carry to only what you will actually need. • Check credit card and bank statements carefully for unauthorized charges. • Close credit card accounts you don’t use on a regular basis. • Shred all documents containing personal information — especially pre-approved credit card offers — with a cross-cut shredder. • Before revealing any identifying information, ask how it will be used and secured, and whether it will be shared with others. • Order copies of your free credit reports from the three credit bureaus at least once a year and check them carefully for accuracy. (See numbers on the left sidebar) • Place passwords on credit card, bank and phone accounts. Avoid using easily available informatio
