Practical Steps to Prevent Identity Theft

Watch a video of Mark Davidson in the local news giving tips on protection against identity theft.

Fighting Against Identity Theft. We've all heard horror stories about fraud that's committed in stealing a name, address, Social Security number, credit cards, etc. Here are some things that you can do about it.

Photocopy

First, photocopy the contents of your wallet, including both sides of each license, credit card, etc. Keep these documents in a safe, hidden place, like a safety deposit box. You will then know what you had in your wallet and all of the account numbers and phone numbers to call and cancel. Do this at least annually, and especially before traveling on vacations. If you are a client, you can store all this information in our secure online database, as well as all passwords you hate trying to remember.

Protect your Social Security Number (SSN)

Don't carry your Social Security card in your wallet, or leave it in an unsecured place in your home. DO NOT PRINT YOUR SSN ON YOUR CHECKS, there is no need to and printing it gives it to everyone. Change your Drivers License number if it uses your SSN, most states allow this now, even if they didn't in the past. Avoid using SSN as an ID#, this is sometimes difficult (places like your Health Insurance almost insist), but it is worth the effort.

Check your Credit Report

Order your credit report from one of the three reporting agencies at least annually, better still every six months. Check for inactive accounts that should be closed (these are ripe for fraud and can lower your credit score). Review closely for suspicious activity. If something doesn't look correct, spend the time to check it out, and order your credit report from all three agencies.

Opt Out

Don't respond to solicitations from credit card companies? All the more reason to contact the credit reporting agencies and opt out.

Shred

Buy a cross-cut type shredder (you can purchase cross-cut type shredders very cost effectively). Shred all your important papers, especially pre-approved credit applications received in your name and other financial information that provides access to your private information. Don't forget to shred your credit card receipts. If you don't have or want a shredder, tear up the above items beyond recognition. Not in half. Beyond recognition.

Checks

Use only your first initial and work number on the "styled" information printed on the check. Consider having new boxes of checks delivered to the bank.

Mail

Put bills into a USPS drop box, not your mailbox at your house as bills have critical information a fraudster could use to become "you."

What to Do If You Suspect Your ID Has Been Stolen

First file a police report immediately in the jurisdiction where it was stolen. This proves to credit providers you were diligent and is a first step toward an investigation. Most cities have an ID theft task force; ask for it. Most ID theft task forces are swamped as this is one of the fastest growing crimes. Your goal should be to stop the fraudster and repair your credit.

Call the three national credit reporting organizations immediately to place a fraud alert on your name and Social Security number. The alert means any company that checks your credit knows your information was stolen, and they have to contact you by phone to authorize new credit.

Reporting Agency Contact Information:

Equifax: 1-800-525-6285 www.equifax.com

Experian (formerly TRW): 1-888-397-3742 www.experian.com

Trans Union: 1-800-680-7289 www.transunion.com

Social Security Administration (fraud line): 1-800-269-0271

If Your ID is Stolen

Make your major creditors (like your mortgage company) aware your ID was stolen, as they monitor your credit status, and sometimes a low credit score can put you in technical default on a loan. If this happens to you, contact an attorney experienced with ID theft quickly. This is serious, and time is of the essence. If you do not, you could possibly lose your home or car.

 

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