Identity theft - what is it?

Identity theft is a situation when someone uses real address, first and last name, SSN, credit card or bank account number, or other personal information without your knowledge for some kind of crimes, for example: opening a bank account, commit fraud.

How to prevent identity theft

To avoid becoming a victim of such crime as identity theft, there are some preventive measures you can take. Really, it's very easy measures.

- Don’t give out any kind of your personal information (SSN, bank account numbers, mother’s maiden name) over or the internet or by phone unless you know that information is secure. It is very easy to recognize a website which use secure protocol, it has an https:// (NOT http://) at the beginning of it's internet address in the address bar of the page on which you are submitting some information. Secure webpage have a small picture of a lock in the bottom right corner of your brouser. If you don’t see https:// and a picture of a lock in place, do not submit any kind of personal information

- Your personal information should be secure from any outsiders or visitors who may come in to your lodgment to perform service. Keep your personal information stored away where it information can’t be found by stranger.

- It's very insecure to keep a Social Security Card or Social Security number in a wallet or purse. Much better to leave it at lodgment in a secure place.

- Your paper trash might become an identity thief’s fortune, because a thief can go through your paper trash to find any kind of personal information such as: medical receipts or bills, bank checks or statements.

- Don't open any emails from unfamiliar addresses. You can use special which filter junk and spam e-mail letters. It's very important to use antivirus programs with fresh bases.

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