Identity Theft

*Check your credit reports once a year from all three of the credit reporting agencies listed below.

*Guard your Social Security number. When possible, don’t carry your Social Security card with you.

*Don’t put your SSN or drivers license number on your checks.

*Guard your personal information. You should never give your Social Security number to anyone unless they have a good reason for needing it.

*Watch for people who may try to eavesdrop and overhear the information you give out orally.

*Carefully destroy papers you throw out, especially those with sensitive or identifying information. A crosscut paper shredder works best.

*Be suspicious of telephone solicitors. Never provide information unless you have initiated the call.

*Delete without replying to any suspicious email requests.

*Use a locked mailbox to send and receive all mail.

*Reduce the number of preapproved credit card offers you receive, call 888-5OPTOUT (they will ask for your SSN)