When it comes to keeping your identity and finances protected, it is essential for you to know how to responsibly handle your sensitive information. Even the simplest of actions could put your finances at a significant risk. Therefore, in order to keep yourself better protected, be certain to follow these simple steps for handling your information in a responsible manner.
Tip #1: Review, Review, Review
Each time you receive a bank, credit card or phone statement, be certain to check it carefully for unauthorized use. The sooner you notice and report improper use, the better your chances of catching the thief and putting an end to the problem.
Tip #2: Go Automatic
An increasing number of companies are allowing customers to make automatic payments rather than sending out statements. Take advantage of this option in order to reduce the number of paper bills and checks going through the mail. You should also consider using the Internet for paying bills and conducting your banking transactions in order to reduce the amount of paperwork containing your personal information.
Tip #3: Get Shredding
Any time you throw away personal documents, be certain to shred them first. This advise holds true when it comes to pre-approved credit card offers, as a thief can use one of these offers to apply for a card in your name.
Tip #4: Use Gel Pens
Oddly enough, using a gel pen when writing your checks can help keep you protected from fraudsters. This is because gel ink contains tiny particles of color, which get trapped in the paper and make it more difficult to engage in check washing.
Tip #5: Watch Your Digits
Some banks will automatically assign the last for digits of a customer's social security number as his or her PIN. If your bank engages in this practice, be certain to change your PIN right away. You should also consider talking with a bank representative and requesting that this practice be abandoned.
Tip #6: Check on Business Practices
Before completing applications or using your credit card to make purchases, learn more about how the business stores or disposes of your personal information. When filling out a loan application, for example, the company should keep your application locked up or shred it if your loan is not approved. Similarly, businesses should keep your credit card information locked up where it cannot be easily accessed by a thief. If you are not convinced that the business is careful with your personal information, take your business elsewhere.
Tip #7: Store Checks Safely
If you have canceled or duplicate checks, be certain to store them in a safe location. Checks typically contain some very sensitive information, including your account number, your phone number and possibly your driver's license. Use caution storing this information in a rented storage locker, as storage lockers are frequently targeted by robbers.
About the Author: Shannon Kietzman is a well known author and trusted resource. Shannon regularly writes for www.reliacredit.com . For more info and to order your credit report with FREE credit score please visit www.reliacredit.com
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
7 Tips for Protecting Your Personal Information
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
5 Steps for Avoiding Identity Theft
About the Author: Shannon Kietzman is a well known author and trusted resource. Shannon regularly writes for www.reliacredit.com . For more info and to order your credit report with FREE credit score please visit www.reliacredit.com
Friday, November 14, 2008
The Dos and Don'ts of Avoiding Losing Your Home to a Thief
According to the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the sagging housing market seems to have increased the number of scam artists who are trying to take advantage of innocent homeowners. In addition, scammers are becoming even bolder with who they try to swindle. Whereas homeowners who were struggling to make their house payments were once at the top of the scammers' lists, the FBI reports that they are targeting those who are making regular payments as well.
Identity Theft and Home Loss
Two of the most common scams these shysters are implementing involve stealing the homeowner's identity. For example, the scammers may establish a line of credit based on the equity of a person's property. They then drain out the line of credit and leave the homeowner holding the bill. Another scam involves tricking the homeowner into singing over the title and then selling the home out from underneath the owner. While the owner can avoid losing his or her home to these con artists, it generally costs thousands of dollars and takes a great deal of time to prove who is the rightful ower.
Dos and Don'ts of Home Scams
In order to avoid being taken advantage of these scam artists, it is important to follow a few simple dos and don'ts. These include:
Do: Call your mortgage company if you are experiencing financial troubles. Discuss your situation with the loss mitigation department and see if there is a way you can work together to save your home.
Don't: Fall for promises made by individuals or "companies" who claim that they will help you save your credit or get a new mortgage with a new, lower monthly payment rate.
Do: Proceed with caution in any dealings regarding your home or home equity. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
Don't: Sign away your ownership rights. No matter how convincing the person sounds, there is rarely a legitimate reason for signing over your home. Before signing over rights, contact your attorney and make certain the deal is legitimate.
Do: Read all paperwork thoroughly before signing. In addition to making certain you fully understand the paperwork, you should also avoid signing any contracts or documents with blank spaces.
Don't: Allow yourself to panic and make snap decisions. Scam artists prey on those who are desperate and, therefore, make quick decisions that they hope will provide them with a quick solution.
Do: Get it in writing. If you have finally struck what seems to be a good and legitimate deal, be certain to get it all in writing. Verbal agreements are difficult, if not impossible, to hold up in court.
By following these simple dos and don'ts, you can dramatically decrease your chances of being taken advantage of while making certain to get your finances properly squared away.
About the Author: Shannon Kietzman is a well known author and trusted resource. Shannon regularly writes for www.reliacredit.com . For more info and to order your credit report with FREE credit score please visit www.reliacredit.com
