How to Protect Yourself from Identity Theft

identity theftIdentity theft is a crime that is committed by an imposter who tries to obtain important information of a person. He later imitates him or her by using his personal details. Identity theft has become a widespread problem, especially since the introduction of the internet. It now easy for identity thieves to find your personal information online. They can easily get your bank account number, social security number or your license number online.

There are different types of identity theft. Some of them include financial identity theft, medical identity theft, child identity theft, and criminal identity theft. It is not easy to safeguard your information offline or online. However, there are several ways that you can use to protect your privacy all the time.

How to protect yourself from identity theft

1. Beware of scam mails

You should be watchful regarding your personal information. Do not provide any personal information to telemarketers or reply to emails that say they represent your bank or your credit card issuer.

2. Secure your mail

Make sure you empty your mailbox regularly. Otherwise, make sure you lock it. You can also get a post office box to ensure criminals do not steal the credit card pitches. Do not submit outgoing bill or checks through a mail from your home. They can get stolen.

3. Never leave a paper trail

Whenever you are using your credit, do not leave behind your credit card, gas station receipts or even ATM receipts. Criminals can use them afterwards.

4. Always protect your social security number

Make sure you do move with the cards such as health insurance card. If you have them, do not put the number exposed as it is the primary target by the identity thieves. The number will help them get access to your credit card report or bank account.

5. Know people you are dealing with

Whenever a person approaches you to know your personal details or to know your financial information, do not give the information straightaway. Make sure you know his or her name, and the company he represents. You should also know the reason for him or her contacting you. If you do not believe the person, contact the respective company and confirm the details yourself.

6. Make sure your monitor your credit card report

You should review you credit card report to track any suspicious activity. If you notice something is wrong, kindly alert the card company as quickly as possible.

7. Review your credit cards statements

Always ensure you know about the location and the purchases before making the payment of any bill.

8. Make sure your personal information is safe

If a person asks you about your personal information such as social security number, ask him or her about their company’s private policy. Ask them as many questions as possible. This will help you identify if the person is a thief or not.


Terrorism and criminal activities are on the rise, it is therefore important to protect and secure yourself from identity theft. Always keep your eyes and ears open when dealing with people or companies. You never know the person you are dealing with.