subject: Identity Protection - 5 Tips That Can Save Your Financial Future [print this page] Being a victim of identity theft could be considered as one of the most terrible things that could happen to a person because it will not only create damage on your financial and credit status but will also ruin your good name. The best thing you could do to prevent this from happening to you is to protect your self and your family and make sure that you will not give these thieves even the slightest opportunity to take advantage of your money and properties. Here are some of the best tips that could help you protect your self.
Be Alert and Take All the Necessary Precautions. You must be alert about the things happening around you. Simple things like making sure that the person next in line is far enough so there will be no chance for that person to see the access codes that you are going to enter when using the ATM. The same goes if you are using your credit or debit card. Make sure that the amount is the same with the actual total amount of your purchase before signing the receipt. Don't respond to spam mails and never give out your important personal information like social security numbers, bank account numbers, and credit card numbers to anyone who calls you on the phone.
Always Opt for a More Secured Mode of Payment. This is for those who are fond of shopping online because almost all online shops will accept payments through credit cards. It is advisable to use online payment processors because not only will they give you total buying protection but could also protect you from identity theft. By using payment processors, the seller will not be able to access your personal data and your account and credit card numbers will not be revealed to the seller. When shopping from a local retail store, it would also help if you will just pay in cash instead of using your credit card.
Do Checks before giving Out Information. You might receive emails claiming that they are from your bank or creditors asking you to verify your account by providing your account password, access codes, or account numbers. Thieves could also call you and ask for the same information. It would be wise to check and verify the emails and phone calls first before giving out the information that they are asking. Check your bank's website to verify that they really need that kind of information for you and never respond to spam emails. For telephone calls, you could say that you will just call them again and dial your bank's or credit company's phone numbers to make sure that the call really came from them.
Use Strong Passwords and Pin Numbers. Most people have one common mistake when it comes to choosing their passwords and access codes and this is choosing numbers and words that are related to their personal life like names, birthdays, home number, phone numbers, and other similar things. Criminals could easily hack into your account because they could easily guess your passwords and access codes so it would be best if you will choose your passwords and access codes carefully and wisely.
Get an Identity Theft Insurance Policy. Insurance companies now offer identity theft insurance policies due to the fact that more and more people are becoming victims of this crime. You must keep in mind that identity theft insurance policies will not give you the whole amount that you have lost or will not pay off the debt left by the criminals. The main purpose of this insurance policy is to help you get up on your feet and will help you get started again. The policies and coverage vary from one company to another so you should choose one that you think would give you the best benefits.
