Identity Theft

It's an unfortunate fact that there are a lot of bad people out there.

• Shred personal information.
  
• Use your initials and work phone number on checks.
  
• Protect your Social Security Number. If asked for it, ask the person why he/she needs your SS# ... and if you can, do not give it out.
• Photocopy the contents of your purse/wallet. It makes it easier to remember what was in your purse/wallet if ever it is taken.
  
• Avoid placing any outgoing mail in your mailbox.
  
• Clear out your car of any personal or business information when it is not totally necessary.
  
• Do not ever give protected information to unsolicited contacts.
  
• When involved in casual contact with people (selling items like cars or just chance encounters) avoid giving out unnecessary information.
  
• When using a credit card, protect it from people with camera phones.
  
• When using credit cards at a restaurant, make sure it's your card that is returned to you.
  
• Call the 3 national credit reporting organizations immediately to place a fraud alert on your name and Social Security Number. The alert means they have to contact you by phone to authorize new credit card.
  
• You can opt out of pre-approved credit cards by calling 1.888.567.8688.
  
• Watch for missing bills, checks, strange names in mail.
• Gel pens are the best to prevent "washing" of checks.
• Maintain updates for fire walls, anti-virus, and operating systems on your computers.

• Never email any protected information.
• Understand your web browser and its functions and look for encryption on shopping sites.
• When getting emails don't click on included web links to sites. They can seem real but guide you to malicious sites.
  
• Never put the full credit card account number on the check ... only put the last 4 numbers. The credit card company knows the rest of the number.
• File a police report immediately in the jurisdiction where your credit cards, etc were stolen. This proves to credit providers you were diligent, and this is the first step toward an investigation if there is one. 

The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) requires each of the nationwide credit reporting companies — Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion — to provide you with a free copy of your credit report, at your request, once every 12 months. If you plan it properly, you can request a free copy every 4 months from a different company. To remind yourself to request your free copy, add a reminder in your calendar/planner.

Should you order all three reports now or spread them out over time? The answer depends on you.

If you are thinking about buying something big soon - a new car or even a home - you may want to get all of your credit reports now. That way you can correct any mistakes on all of them right away.

If you are not planning a big purchase, requesting them over time might be a better choice. When you spread them out, watch for expected changes or suspicious activity throughout the year.

Whichever strategy you choose, mark your calendar so you know when you can request your next free credit report.

3 Credit Report Companies
Equifax: www.equifax.com
Experian: www.experian.com
TransUnion: www.transuntion.com