Identity Theft
Identity theft is a very scary thing that can harm your credit for a very long time. It’s when someone uses your private information such as your name, date of birth, social security number and other confidential items to open credit in your name with no intent of paying off that credit and then you get stuck with having to handle the debt. This is why it is very important to combat identifying theft before it happens, and here are some very simple and quick ways to keep identity thieves at bay.
Shred, Shred, Shred!
When disposing of confidential documents such as bills, bank statements, check stubs or anything else with your name, address, social security number, date of birth, or any other information that identifies you make sure you shred them before placing them in the trash! It also does not hurt to make sure businesses you work with do the same!
Stay Vigilant!
Closely monitor your credit score and make sure you do not fall for any phishing scams and accidentally give the identity thieves your information. Also ask your financial institution to keep an eye out for unusual requests or transactions on your accounts!