Individuals with credit cards are a target of identity theft regardless of age or status. Therefore it is essential that you educate yourself on how you can recognize identity theft and you can do this with a number of safeguards.
Recognizing identity theft: most individuals are not aware that they are theft victims until the moment they are given a notification of purchase charges and unpaid bills. The moment the victim realizes that they are no longer in control of the use of their cards they mostly panic and get confused, hence the need to take critical measures to ensure that your credit card is always secure, especially if you have a good credit history.
Credit card thieves are quite smart and not only can they completely damage your good credit they can also acquire credit cards using your name. They can also use your personal information to write fake checks, obtain and transfer money and even get employment. Ascertain that you do not through away financial statements into a trash bin, this is one of the places that credit card thieves look in order to obtain vital information regarding your finances and they can use this information to get hold of your bank statements as well as your credit card accounts.
An identity theft alert will be triggered the moment your credit card is denied or even when you find it hard to get employment even with good credentials. Identity theft is also evident when you start receiving a letters or calls informing you of approved or declined credit of bills on purchases that you did not personally make. In addition if you realize that you are no longer receiving your credit and bank statements as you used to then this should be an identity theft alert that someone else is using your personal information.
To prevent this from happening take the following countermeasures:
First and foremost avoid giving out personal information at any one time to anyone anywhere whether on the internet or on the phone. Check you statements on a regular basis this way you will be able to spot any discrepancies and make a report immediately.
It is also important that you realize carrying your passport, credit or social security card in your bag or wallet is dangerous therefore take extra caution not to lose either of them. You should also avoid dumping your receipts anywhere. Ensure that you have a secure mailbox and it is recommended that you completely get rid of your personal data by shredding the documents or burning them.
Report the incident to the authorities the moment you realize that you have become an identity theft victim and also ensure that you alert your credit card company. Request for new credit cards and close existing bank accounts then open new ones. In case your debit card is stolen, apply for a new one and change your password. All the above information should help you prevent a credit card theft.
Preventing yourself from being an theft is within your capabilities. Follow the information on identity theft protection mentioned above and you will be able to fight the battle and come out successful.
Author Resource:
Learn how to prevent identity theft with identity theft alert and other identity protection tips at http://informationonidentitytheft.org .
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