Since first opening a social network account I have always been incredibly wary of what I shared publicly. I have seen other people be very naive with the information they have shared online, full name, address etc. Identity fraud is on the rise and it seems some people are either too ignorant or believe that it won’t happen to them.
Having a shredder to shred all of your important documents is really valuable, anything with personal details on goes through my shredder. But I have seen whilst walking when the bin men are out collecting rubbish, how many people simply throw away these important papers with their rubbish, the bag splits and their information is out on the pavement for everyone to see. All it takes is for that to end up in the wrong hands and you might become the victim of identity theft.
Here are some tips to prevent identity theft:
– Check your statements for any irregularities and report it to your bank as soon as you notice anything wrong.
– Shred your documents. I recommend a cross cut shredder but anything with your personal details on should be destroyed.
– Cover your pin number at cash machines and also don’t write it down or put it in your phone. I know that we all have so many things to remember these days but storing these important numbers anywhere but in your head is asking for trouble. The same goes for passwords.
– Don’t buy anything from a cold caller. I loathe cold calls but all too often we hear about people buying from these scams. Don’t do it, the offer really is too good to be true!
– Be careful with what information you share on social networks. Facebook will let you write all your personal details in, address, phone numbers etc and if your profile is on public view then everyone can see it Just don’t write that information onto the internet, it’s not needed and you’re not protecting yourself
– Check your credit rating regularly (visit site here) to see if any credit has been taken out without your knowledge.Credit reference agencies can alert you of any changes on your credit file that could indicate identity theft.
What I am trying to say is to be careful, think about what you share and be vigilant.
Oh, and go buy a shredder or ask Father Christmas nicely…