Anticipation is always considered better than treatment. In case of identity theft, it is considered highly recommended. To call identity theft a sin would not be wrong as it has totally ruined many people’s life. Identity theft takes away the money and the reputation as well.
Identity theft can ruin your money and can misuse your name in many illegal activities. The thief might take loan under your name and/or even open a new account(s) with your name. Thief will disappear as soon his game is over and you will be the one suffering all the consequences like answering to police and other agencies.
These criminals are smart enough to get access to your data without you noticing that. All they need is your social security number, name and residential address to ruin your credit. With all this precious data in their hands, they may get your date of birth; mother’s maiden name and every necessary statistics require opening a new account.
If the above information is already leaked out, criminal might get several credit cards under your name. These cards are the easiest to get; all they need is your driving license with a picture ID and your social security number.
Awareness is the key to success to prevent your self from being a victim. There are many steps which you might take to minimize the risk up to a great level.
To protect your identity with credit cards: you must check the credit card application process of the stores where you are applying for credit cards. Check how much secure their process is. Only apply for the credit card at a store if you are fully satisfied.
You also need to check and discuss this matter with all private companies or business organizations you deal with. Ask them how they dispose of the documents from their clients and how much secure their database is.
Never entertain such queries on phone when they ask you for the verification process claiming to be your bank manager or someone like that.
If you have any intention to dispose of your documents, always use the paper shredder so that no one gets this stuff from your bin. Do not carry all of your credit cards or checkbooks along with you in your wallet.
Never write your credit card number on checks. Have a regular check on your bank statements and if you have applied for a credit card and it is taking too long to receive you, you better ask your bank again, Do not use one credit card for high bills and do not throw away your receipts after shopping.
These ordinary sounding guidelines will save you from lot of trouble at the end.
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