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*Shredder courtesy of Wal-Mart

HOW TO PREVENT

Even after taking all possible precautions, a person may still become a victim of identity theft. Everyone shops, pays taxes, buys groceries, etc., and all of these transactions make your personal information available to others.  Additionally credit bureaus sell your information, the phone book lists it, and it can even be “googled” on the internet.  However, if you take the steps below, you can make it difficult for anyone to steal your identity.

 Here are some things that can be done to protect against identity theft:

• Avoid giving out your Social Security number.  Do not write it on checks or other documents unless it is required for services.
• Never give personal information, credit card numbers, PIN’s or social security numbers to someone over the telephone unless you placed the call.
• Shred all credit card offers, bank and credit card statements and other personal documents before throwing them away.
• Use the Postal blue mailboxes to mail outgoing letters and pick up your mail promptly.  Avoid using home mailboxes located at the street.
• Review and reconcile bank and credit card statements on a monthly basis.
• Do not do on-line banking or other password sensitive activities over a “wireless” network.
• Check credit bureau activity reports at least once a year, through all three major credit bureaus.  Challenge any activity or information on it that is incorrect or unusual.