I.D. theft:prevention key

Prevent before it is too late. Identity theft is one of the fastest growing crimes across the Untied States right now and most times there is nothing one can do about it until it is too late.

Identity theft can ruin ones reputation and credit. Due to identity thefts that have occurred throughout Cabrini’s campus in the past two years, one may want to take some precautions before one ends up a victim

First of all, one should not carry their social security card with them. Keep it at home in a safe spot, and only give out the social security number when absolutely necessary. Ask to use another type of identification when it is possible. Do not give any personal information out over the phone unless one knows who they are talking to.

Before revealing any personal identity information, find out how it will be used and whether it will be shared with others. Ask if it can be kept confidential.

Do the same thing with personal information at one’s place of employment. Find out who has access to the personal information and verify that the records will be kept in secure location.

Remember that any random person can just pick through trash. It is important to tear up or shred any personal information such as charge receipts, copies of credit applications, insurance information, banks statement and check along with expired charge cards.

It is also imperative that when one is going out that one only carries information and cards that one will not need. Just carry what one thinks he/she will actually need.

In addition, be aware of missing credit card bills. It may be an immediate sign that someone is going through mail and stealing information.

One may even hide personal information within their room. Sometimes one never knows who is going to be in their room. Roommates may bring in new friends or there may be unfamiliar people coming in and out to do work or repairs and one would definitely want their important information in a safe spot.

One of the invaluable and easiest things someone can do is put an alert on their social security number which prevents anyone from opening anything under their name.

It is better to be safe than sorry; perhaps one may want to follow these suggestions to keep their identity secure.

For more information about Identity
Theft, contact:

TRANS UNION CORPORATION
Order Report# (800) 888-4213
Fraud # (800) 680-7289
TransUnion LLC
Consumer Disclosure Center
P.O. Box 1000
Chester, PA 19022
www.tuc.com