Identity theft can involve financial, medical or personal information where another person identifies themselves as you without your permission. Prevention is doing one thing, but it a series of things, or as one expert said it is a strategy.

Shredding- Most people know that shredding documents with account or personal information on it is a major component of prevention. Shred all paperwork, checks, statements, old credit cards and medical information before throwing it away.

Trash- In many cities, digging though trash has become, according to my research, big business in finding information to steal identities. Credit crad statements, medical information, bank and loan statements, any personal information may be used to steal your identity. Be really careful with trash collection.

Be suspicious- I trust folks and am not suspicious by nature. I need you to be vigilant when asked by phone or in an email about personal information. Many banks do a great job teaching customers to be careful when giving out credit card, bank account or any personal information. Be alert for surveys, telephone calls or any person who asks for any of your account information. Do not lend your credit card to anyone. Watch when clerks take your card.

One article suggested that a bit of paranoia when dealing with your credit and other personal information would be a great trait to acquire!

Citations:

http://moneycentral.msn.com/content/banking/financialprivacy/p33715.asp

http://ezinearticles.com/?The-Search-For-the-Best-Way-to-Prevent-Identity-Theft&id=1953594


Marion R. Syversen, MBA - President
NorumbegaFinancial
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Marion@NorumbegaFinancial.com
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