Identity theft is a nightmare. It is extremely difficult to prove who you are to the powers that be. If you don’t have the correct documentation, government agencies or very often less than cooperative. Here are 10 tips to avoid identity theft.
1. Shred all personal correspondence before you put it into the bid. This ensures that anyone who goes through your rubbish cannot get your name and address for use in stealing your identity.
2. Ensure that you keep your computer secure with a strong and regularly changed password and a good anti-virus program. This helps to protect your online passwords and, if you store your credit card information on your computer, it will keep it safe from hackers.
3. Never respond to e-mails which asked for passwords if sent by a financial organisation. Most banks will never send you this type of request and this type of identity theft is increasing rapidly. It is known as phishing and it is catching more and more people out as they unwittingly handover their personal details.
4. Always keep your national insurance number private. Only use your national insurance number when contacting official agencies on official business. Any websites or official looking letters which ask you to send your national insurance number should be double checked with a phone call. This is one of the easiest ways of identity thieves can take your information.
5. Check your credit rating on a regular basis. You can do this by contacting Equifax or Experian online and paying a small charge. We would recommend doing this credit check on quarterly basis.
6. If you move house, remember to make a list of all the organisations you need to inform about your move and write to them directly. One of the easiest ways to get your identity stolen is to avoid doing this.
7. Never give out personal information on the telephone to callers who don’t seem genuine. If you’re in doubt, tell the person you will call them back at a company specific number.
If you stick to these simple rules, your odds of having your identity stolen are minimised. Considering the stress and hassle of having your identity stolen, these are simple and easy steps to take in the long run.
