ID theft is a becoming a big concern for many of us
Here’s some topical insurance news and it grows out of the fear of identity fraud. This ever increasing scam has given the banks and credit card companies the perfect selling opportunity: ID theft insurance. This type of protection may be the ultimate peace of mind insurance policy.
The worse the economic crisis becomes, the more crime emerges on the streets. Many people are worrying about ID theft in these troubled times. It is cited as the main worry for those aged over 65. If you become a victim of ID theft, there’s no question it could be a very serious problem indeed. Fraudsters can obtain your personal information and identity without your knowledge, and then use it to open bank accounts or apply for credit in your name.
Clearing up the mess after your ID has been stolen and correcting your credit record can be a complex, time-consuming process. So, wouldn’t it be sensible to insure against it? Apply for Payday Cash Advance Loans right now and attend to this insurance matter so you can continue thinking without worrying.
How they get you
Use of stolen credit card and debit card numbers is among the most common forms of identity theft. Some schemes use electronic means, including online scams like “phishing,” while others might use more old-fashioned methods, such as “dumpster diving”- rooting around in people’s garbage to collect financial information.
The advent of the new, “no-swipe” credit cards that transmit account and user information through radio frequency identification may make it possible, in some cases, for identity thieves to use a simple electronic device to capture the information.
Tips for Avoiding Identity Theft
- Keep the amount of personal information in your purse or wallet to the bare minimum.
- Avoid carrying additional credit cards, your social security card or passport.
- Guard your credit card when making purchases.
- Always take credit card or ATM receipts.
- Don’t give out personal information on the phone, through the mail or over the Internet unless you have a secure line.
- Proceed with caution when shopping online.
- Do not fall for online or email scams. Be wary if you receive email solicitations for personal information.
- Monitor your accounts.
- Don’t rely on your credit card company or bank to alert you of suspicious activity. Check your bank and credit card statements.
- Order a copy of your credit report from each of the three major credit bureaus. A new law that took effect December 1, 2004, entitles you to one free credit report per year. Your credit report contains information on where you work and live, the credit accounts that have been opened in your name, how you pay your bills and whether you’ve been sued, arrested or filed for bankruptcy.
- Place passwords on your credit card, bank and phone accounts. Avoid using easily available information like your mother’s maiden name, your birth date, any part of your Social Security number or phone number, or any series of consecutive numbers. If you suspect a problem with your credit card, change your password.
- Shred any documents containing personal information such as credit card numbers, bank statements, charge receipts or credit card applications, before disposing of them.
Good article; very informative. People can easily fall victim to fraud if they fail to act and protect their name and credit by making these preventative measures. You should protect your credit as you would your life. Mr. Moss also states something in this article that many of us women are guilty of. Ladies, carry your purses if you must, but do limit the items you carry in it.