Janet Thompson
Star Real Estate
Protect yourself from identity theft
Every few seconds, there is a victim of identity theft. It is the fastest growing crime in the U.S. The first
step to preventing identity theft and the easiest, most effective measure against this personal crime is
to safeguard your personal information. Some personal information, including name, address, and phone
number are public knowledge. Other information, like your mother’s maiden name and your date of birth
can be discovered with some digging. However, your social security numbers, bank accounts, PIN
numbers, passwords, and credit card numbers should always remain confidential. These details present
a higher potential risk to your identity’s security and must be appropriately protected. Criminals with
access to your information can steal your identity to misuse it for their own gain; open bank accounts,
reroute mail, or apply for credit in your name. These activities can cost you money and damage your
credit. Defend and protect yourself before it becomes a life-altering problem that could take years to
correct.
Δ Your wallet or purse – Don’t put your social security card or number in your wallet or purse. Only
include the cards and information you use on a daily or weekly basis. Make copies of the front and
back of your credit cards in case they are lost or stolen, you will have the contact numbers to call
to cancel the accounts and report the incident to the credit card companies.
Δ The mail – If you pay your bills by check, don’t leave them in your mailbox for your mail carrier to
pick up. Someone else may take them instead. For further protection,consider installing a locking
mailbox. Locking mailboxes must be a USPS approved model and be approved by the Postmaster
General.
Δ The trash – Before tossing, use a cross-cut shredder to shred any paper with personal information
on them. If you’re not sure, shred it! To stop receiving pre-approved credit offers, go to this website
www.optoutprescreen.com or call 1-888-5-OPTOUT.
Δ The computer – Make sure your computer has an anti-virus program, a firewall program, and an
anti-spam filter. Only use secure websites for on-line transactions. It is best to choose complex
passwords over ones that are easy to remember.
Δ Your accounts – Review your credit card and bank statements promptly. Be careful to whom you
give personal information. Banks will not call or e-mail you for your personal information. Don’t be
fooled by e-mails from a dignitary in Tasmania who wants to share his $1.5M inheritance in exchange
for your bank account information.
Δ Your credit report – Review your credit report periodically. You can order a free report once a year
from the 3 credit reporting companies; Equifax, TransUnion, and Experian. Call 1-877-322-8228 or
go to www.annualcreditreport.com.
Janet Thompson
Star Real Estate South County
(949) 795-9949
Janet_Thompson@cox.net
“Visit my website” www.JanetThompson.com
“A house is a home when it shelters the body and comforts the soul”
