Identity theft is a crime where a thief steals your personal information, such as your full name or social security number, to commit fraud. Legislator James D. Kennedy and the Nassau County Police Department offer several preventative tips to help you from becoming another victim of identity theft.
WHAT IS IDENTITY THEFT?
Identity theft has become a top fraud complaint and limiting your use of your personal computer may not help much because most identity thefts are taking place offline, not online -- just the opposite of what many folks might think. All a thief needs is your Social Security number to commit identity theft. This crime is relatively easy to commit, but investigating and prosecuting it is complex and time-consuming. But once you know the facts and some preventive measures you can take, you can win the fight against identity theft!
IDENTITY THEFT PREVENTION TIPS
Secure your social security number (SSN). Don’t carry your social security card in your wallet or write your number on your checks. Only give out your SSN when absolutely necessary.
Don’t respond to unsolicited requests for personal information (your name, birthdate, social security number, or bank account number) by phone, mail, or online.
Watch out for “shoulder surfers.” Shield the keypad when typing your passwords on computers and at ATMs.
Collect mail promptly. Ask the post office to put your mail on hold when you are away from home for several days.
Pay attention to your billing cycles. If bills or financial statements are late, contact the sender.
Review your receipts. Promptly compare receipts with account statements. Watch for unauthorized transactions.
Shred receipts, credit offers, account statements, and expired cards, to prevent “dumpster divers” from getting your personal information.
Store personal information in a safe place at home and at work.
Install firewalls and virus-detection software on your home computer.
Create complex passwords that identity thieves cannot guess easily. Change your passwords if a company that you do business with has a breach of its databases
Order your credit report once a year and review to be certain that it doesn't include accounts that you have not opened. Check it more frequently if you suspect someone has gained access to your account information.