December is National ID Theft Prevention Awareness Month, and with the holidays and economy driving people to find extra cash, now is the time to talk about identity theft and how to prevent it. As many as 9 million Americans each year are victims of some form of identity theft. Identity theft is committed in different ways, and with today’s technology, there are even more ways identities are stolen.
Some of these ways include stealing a credit card; capturing personal information online; breaking into your home and taking personal information such as a Social Security card; and creating accounts in your name, such as a cell phone account.
Identity theft should not be taken lightly—and many individuals view it as a problem that only requires attention when it occurs. The consequences of identity theft can be severe, which is all the more reason to be watchful and proactive when it comes to your security and well-being. Here are some steps you can take to avoid becoming a victim of identity theft:
- Shred documents with sensitive information.
- Check your credit card and bank statements on a consistent basis.
- Create sensible passwords and change them regularly.
- Use only secure online sites.
- Maintain a safety deposit box with important documents.
- Keep your Social Security card in a safe place.
- Monitor your credit report.
Your credit is one of the most valuable things you own—make sure to protect it!
