Top 10 Best Ways to Protect Yourself from Identity Theft

Identity Theft Prevention – Sponsored by LifeLock

The reality is that identity theft continues to be a serious threat to consumers, and while LifeLock can significantly reduce your risk of theft, you are your best ally when it comes to protecting your sensitive information. No matter where you are or what you are doing you can improve your chances of keeping your identity yours and yours alone by staying informed, checking companies against the Better Business Bureau, and following tips to protecting yourself against preying identity thieves. Here are 10 steps you can take to secure your identity at home, in the office, and online.

1. Never keep your Social Security Number in your purse or wallet

2. Check bank account balances weekly

3. Request credit reports from the major credit card companies annually

4. Never leave sensitive information in your vehicle

5. Place passwords on credit cards and bank and phone accounts, as well as on computers and information-sensitive files

6. Keep all your personal information in locked files, and review how you carry, send, and store sensitive documents

7. Shred all your trash that contains sensitive and personal information, such as your name, address, and phone number

8. Install and regularly update firewalls and anti-viruses on your computer to protect it from hackers and Internet viruses

9. Unless you have instigated the communication, do not give out any personal information online, over the phone, or through the mail

10. Never use unsecured mailboxes, but deposit all of your outgoing mail in locked boxes, at the post office, or in local collection boxes, checking your mailbox regularly for incoming mail and removing it promptly

By following these 10 steps, you can drastically reduce your chances of identity theft. To protect yourself even further, sign up with LifeLock‘s $10 a month guaranteed service. For more information, check out our website.