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Protect yourself from Identity Theft
Guard your mail from theft. Don’t leave mail in your mailbox overnight or on weekends. Be vigilant about checking your mail promptly after it has been delivered and don’t let it pile up while you are away. When mailing an item deposit it in a U.S. Postal Service collection box. Pay attention to your billing cycles, if your bill doesn't arrive in the mail, be suspicious.
Shred all papers that include personal information, identification, and account numbers. This includes pre-approved credit card solicitations. Thieves will often search through your garbage to find these forms and information and use it to apply for credit in your name. To decrease the number of unsolicited credit card applications that you receive, call (888) 5OPT-OUT to have your name removed from marketing lists sold by credit bureaus.
Don’t give out any personal information over the phone unless you initiate the call. If someone contacts you through a telephone solicitation, it is advisable to demand they mail you information so that you can further research the company and their products and services.
Check all financial statements for accuracy. This includes checking your credit report on a regular basis. Order a copy of your credit report from the three major credit reporting agencies (The agencies are: Equifax, Experian and Trans Union) at least once a year and make sure that the information they have is correct.
If you think you have been a victim of Identity Theft.
Identity Theft - Additional Resources
Identity Theft - Home Page
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