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Pros And Cons Of Being A Victim Of Identity Theft

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Whether you have been a victim of identity theft or want to prevent yourself from becoming one take advantage of these tips and strategies to keep you safe. Some of them may be very obvious to you, while others may surprise you.
Be Careful of What You Carry with You
• Your Social Security card is unique to you and you alone. Because of this do not carry your Social Security card in your wallet or purse. Also, never write it on checks. Never give your Social Security number to someone who calls you on the phone. In telephone situations give it only to companies that you trust, i.e. a credit card company that YOU have called to verify who you are.
• Although it is easy to forget your PIN number, especially if it is a unique one, which is recommended, …show more content…

Hold it on your lap or place it under a coat.
• When you are in an ATM use your free hand to shield someone from seeing the numbers you are punching into the keypad.
Sets To Take In Your Home
• If you are to be away from home for more than a day or two have a trusted friend or family member collect your mail. If that is not possible ask the post office to hold you mail until your return.
• If you are still receiving paper statements in the mail pay attention to your billing cycles and if a particular bill is late contact the sender. Late bills may mean they have gotten into the wrong hands.
• Keep all receipts for transactions. When you are reviewing your account statements, online or on paper, keep a close eye out for unauthorized transactions. If you notice any contact the institution in which the unauthorized transaction was made.
• Invest in a shredder. It is worth every penny. Shred any unwanted receipts, credit card offers, account statements as well as expired credit cards. Basically, shred anything that has any of your personal information on it.
• Invest in a home safe or strong box. Use this to store any personal information in your home or at

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