Identity Theft
How Can I Prevent Identity Theft?
One of the most frustrating things that can affect your credit score is identity theft. If you’ve ever been a victim of identity theft you know how helpless you it can make you feel. Whether you’ve been a victim or not there are several ways to help prevent identity theft.
1. Shred all personal information. Throwing information in the trash makes it public property and anyone can get access to it.
2. Ensure that your mail is not easily accessible to those who might steal it.
3. Don’t keep your social security card or number in your wallet or purse. If it gets lost or stolen, anyone has the means to steal your identity.
4. Review your credit to make certain no one has been using your information to get credit without your knowledge.
5. Make sure you have virus software and a good firewall if you are making online purchases.
6. Only use reputable websites that have been proven safe when making online purchases.
7. Use credit monitoring services or purchase identity theft protection if you think your information may have already been compromised.
8. If you are certain your information has been compromised, place a fraud alert on your credit report.
If you have been a victim of identity theft, contact a Credit Score Professional for help getting identity theft related items removed from your credit report.