by: Kazuyuki Omino
When another person succeeds in using your credit information to commit credit fraud, it can cause a lot of hassle in your life. So how do you protect yourself.
Here are a few tips on how to avoid becoming the victim of this type of crime.
Periodically review your credit reports. Order your credit report from each of them at least once a year.
Properly discard documents. Cut up, shred or otherwise destroy credit card statements, credit card receipts, bank statements, preapproved credit offers or any other documents that contain personal information.
Limit identification pieces. Carry only essential identification pieces in your purse or wallet, backpack or car. Do not carry your Social Security card or your birth certificate with you unless absolutely necessary.
Limit the number of credit cards you carry. Try to only carry one or two.
Memorize your PIN and password numbers. Do not write them down.
Make and keep copies of credit account and bank account numbers in a secure place.
Guard your personal information. Don't give out credit card or Social Security numbers to people you don't know.
Do not have your Social Security number printed on your checks or driver's license.