10 ID Fraud Protection Tips

Looking for 10 ID fraud protection tips? It is vital for everyone to know how to protect against ID fraud. It is estimated that nine million people have their identity stolen each year. Identity theft can ruin a person’s credit, making it hard to get a loan, credit card or even a telephone or cable contract. Identity theft can happen to anryone, and the proper protection is vital. The following are some ID fraud protection tips to help you protect your identity.

1. Have only one or two credit or debit cards on you at a time. If you carry several credit cards it is very easy to lose one when paying at a store. Also, you may forget which card you used and may not check your statement when it comes in.
2. Keep a copy of all credit card, debit card and bank account numbers safely stored away. If you are the victim of ID fraud it will be easier to notify your financial institution if your information is accessible. If you lose your card, you should immediately contact the company and put a hold on the card.
3. Do not give out your Social Security number if at all possible. This number is the main piece of information you use for loans, banking accounts and any credit transactions. If you must provide your SS number, write it down and give it to the person requesting it. Never say it out loud.
4. Never leave behind any receipts you receive for purchases. When given a receipt, always check to see that the amount charged is the amount you spent. At times, people can use your card to receive cash, and you may never know. Always put the receipt safely away, not in with your merchandise.
5. Never let someone take your credit card away from the transaction location. Clerks and other store employees can make copies of the card without you ever knowing it. Always be the one to enter your PIN into a machine. If possible, swipe your card yourself. This will help protect you from ID fraud.
6. Know the policy on credit protection of the company you are dealing with. Always ask to be sent a written statement of these policies and read them carefully. Check your statement monthly and report any wrong transactions that may be evidence of identity fraud.
7. Remove your name from any marketing lists. If a company asks you to let them provide your information to another company, just say no. There are registries that you can sign up with to remove your name from marketing companies' lists.
8. Do not provide any information except your name, address and phone number when filling out a work application. If you must fill out more, ask if you can give that information out when you are hired. If a background check is being done, ask the name of the company and check them out with the Better Business Bureau.
9. Monitor your credit records at least twice a year. For a small fee (or even for free in some states) you can request your credit report. Check these over carefully and if you notice suspicious activity, contact the business that is shown on the activity. Unauthorized charges are often a sign of identity theft.
10. Check your credit card, bank statements and even phone bills each month for fraudulent charges. If you notice anything out of the ordinary, report it to the company. You are not responsible for charges not authorized by you.