Identity theft resources for victims - What to do if it happens to you!
What follows on this identity theft resources page is a brief recap of things you can do now to avoid becoming a victim. If you are already
a victim and need immediate assistance, go straight to
RECOVERY.
For extreme cases in need of personalized legal and/or investigative services,
please contact me
for a referral to a qualified professional.
ITPME's Identity Theft Resources Page TOP TEN list of must do's:1. Guard your Social Security number - don't carry your social security card in your wallet or purse.
2. Reconcile your bank statements monthly and review your credit card statements upon receipt for unfamiliar charges.
3. Cross-cut shred all bank receipts, credit card statements and all other sensitive documents before tossing them in the trash.
4. Use a gel pen for all your check writing.
5. Never give out personal information via an email request or over the phone (unless you initiated the call to a legitimate business). Check with the
Better Business Bureau
to verify a business' track record.
6. Change account passwords often.
Click here for password do's and don'ts and a free password strength checker.
7. Remember
email is not secure
- don't transmit sensitive data in emails or instant messages.
8. Secure your computer with
anti-virus, firewall and anti-spyware
programs.
9. Keep tabs on your credit report & background files:
monitor your credit report monthly
and
run a background check
on yourself routinely for evidence of an erroneous criminal record.
10.Consider the added peace of mind of
identity theft protection insurance with invaluable identity restoration services.
More strategies for maintaining your privacy...
Other Resources
Leave IDENTITY THEFT RESOURCES page and go to CAST YOUR VOTE!
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