Avoiding Identity Theft

Everyone seems to be worried about having their identity stolen, and justifiably so. Turn your back for a second, and your purse is gone. Fax information to someone, and the next thing you know, someone is buying concert tickets with your credit card.
There are some things you can do to help yourself in the event you become a victim of identity theft.

The next time you order checks have only your initials (instead of first name) and last name put on them. Your bank will know how you sign your checks.
Never have your Social Security number printed on your checks.
Make a coppy of both sides of each license and credit card. You will have all of the account numbers and phone numbers for the things in your wallet in case you need to call and cancel the cards. Keep the photocopy in a safe place. Make sure that someone knows how to access this information in an emergency.

Carry your wallet or billfold in a way that is difficult for someone to get a hold of. A pocket with a zipper works well. If someone grabs your purse, the articles most wanted aren't in there. If you carry your wallet in a fanny pack, wear it in front.
Carry a photocopy of your passport when you travel.

When you leave your passport in a hotel room, lock it in the safe.
Cancel your credit cards immediately if they are stolen.
File a police report in the jurisdiction in which the theft occurred.
Call the three national credit reporting organizations to place a fraud alert on your name and Social Security number.

Equifax: 1-800-525-6285

Experian (formerly TRW): 1-888-397-3742

Trans Union: 1-800-680-7289

Social Security Administration (fraud line): 1-800-269-0271

Remember, you can prevent this kind of thing from happeneing to you. Be smart, and don't give the thieves an opportunity to take advantage of you.
Summary
Have you or someone you know been a victim of identity theft? This article will help you avoid that, or show you what to do if it happens to you.