Protect Yourself From Identity Theft

Do you check your credit report at least once a year? Do you shred your bank statements before throwing them in the trash or recycling them?

If the answer is "no" to these questions you might be a victim of identity theft and not even know it. The Federal Trade Commission estimates that up to 10 million Americans are victims of identity theft each year. That's an alarming number considering it wasn't a federal offense until Congress made it so in 1998.

Protect Your Personal Information

Identity theft occurs when someone uses your name, Social Security number, date of birth, or other identifying information to commit fraud, typically for economic gain. The threat is real, but there's good news; there are steps you can take to help protect yourself.

Check It - Review your credit reports regularly and make sure the data is correct. The first signs of trouble generally show up in your reports.

Shred It - Don't make it easy for thieves. Shred any documents that contain account numbers, such as bank statements or credit card bills.

Guard It - Phishing attempts (posing as someone else to gain your information) are common in the digital age. Have common sense; your bank will never email you to ask for your social security or account number.

ID Protection Services

Sometimes protecting your personal information just isn't enough. The rapid rise of ID theft crimes has spawned products and services designed to protect your identity and help resolve any misuse of your name. While many of the services offered can be done yourself, a small monthly fee may be worth the time and energy involved in keeping on top of it. Click here to compare identity theft protection services.

Criminals are always looking for ways to rip people off. As the identity protection industry evolves, we're seeing new and innovative ways companies are protecting you from the threats - and easing the burden if the unthinkable does happen.