Identity Theft: Things You Should Know

1. Use passwords on all accounts and your PC that are difficult to guess...don't use the same password for everything.

2. Don't use passwords that relate to family names, birth dates, your SSN, addresses or your job.

3. Change your passwords frequently.

4. Do not keep passwords on your person and don't write them on your debit/ATM Cards, or on notes attached to your computer or desk.

5. Be careful what you throw in the trash, such as bills, canceled checks, account statements, marketing solicitations etc.

6. Shred or tear up your charge receipts, credit card solicitations, expired cards, statements, check, outdated documents and other sensitive personal information.

7. Carry only the identification and bank/credit cards you actually need.

8. Review your monthly statement promptly.

9. Secure confidential information at home.

10. Call your credit card company immediately if your new card has not arrived.

11. Destroy and cancel old, unwanted or unused credit cards. Cutting them up is not enough.

12. Don't give private information to anyone unless you are positive who the person is and that they have a legitimate need to know.

13. Never lend your password to anyone.

14. Guard your mail.

15. Be absolutely positive of the identity of anyone telephoning or e-mailing you to request personal information.

• Be especially cautious of anyone claiming to be a bank or law enforcement official.
• Arrange to call the person, using a phone number you can verify in the phone book.

16. Do not give out person data over the phone, through the mail or on the Internet unless you have initiated the contact.

17. Periodically check your credit report to see if there are loans or credit cards outstanding that you don't know about.

18. Never write down your PIN.

19. Guard your Social Security Number. Never carry it in your wallet or write it on checks.

20. Give your Social Security Number only when absolutely necessary.  Ask to use other identifiers.

21. Be careful of who is around you at ATMs. "Shoulder surfers" can get your PIN number and gain access to  your account.

22. Do not allow your credit card out of your sight when paying for products or services.

23. Do not leave your wallet/purse/checkbook in your car.