Identity Theft part 2

Last week, we talked about the increasing threat of identity theft - when thieves steal your personal information and do very bad things with your name.  Here are a few more tips on how to protect yourself from becoming a victim of that crime:

When a high-pressure salesman calls with an overly-attractive offer or “prize,” avoid giving personal information.  If you didn’t initiate the call, ask the caller if you can join their do-not-call list.  Or simply hang up on sales calls.

Again, don’t respond to unsolicited requests for personal information and make sure you have virus protection in place.  Password-protect your computer and change that password frequently.  Also, search the internet occasionally for your name and the last four digits of your Social Security number, just to see what pops up.

On the backs of your credit cards, write "photo ID required" in place of the signature – that makes them harder to use if stolen.  Don’t carry your Social Security card with you.

When a loved one passes away, obtain enough copies of the official death certificate to notify all financial institutions, insurance companies, etc.  Remove their names from all joint accounts and contact the credit reporting agencies and request a deceased alert.  That means no one can attempt to use your relative’s name to gain credit for themselves.

If, at any time, you think an attempt has been made to steal your identity, contact the authorities. File a police report, and file a complaint with the U.S. Federal Trade Commission, whom you can reach at 1-877-IDTHEFT.