Identity theft becomes a life consuming affair for too many people every year. Luckily, Safeco Insurance has given us tips on how to avoid having your identity stolen. Start With Good Habits.
- Print out the .pdf of this information, and store in a convenient place
- Leave your Social Security card at home in a safe place
- Shred papers with personal information
- Reduce your credit card accounts, and carry only the cards you need
- Write checks with a permanent pen, and mail from a secure place
- Photocopy both sides of your credit cards and store safely
Watch Your Accounts Closely
- Review balances and transactions often by phone or online
- Make sure every transaction on your credit card statements is accurate
- Take advantage of free credit reports (see sidebar) and watch for unusual activity
- Sign up with Experian, Transunion, and Equifax and stagger your requests to get a free credit report every four months or sign up for credit watch services which will report directly to you for a fee
Fill Out the FTC Affidavit Quickly
- The FTC Theft Affidavit supplies proof that you didn’t authorize any accounts opened or debts run up by the identity thief
- New accounts need this FTC affidavit form to investigate the fraud and process your claim
- Call your existing accounts for instructions on disputing unauthorized charges as other forms may be needed
- Keep originals of the affidavit, and all supporting materials such as driver’s license or police report. Send copies only.
- Send quickly—many creditors request that you send the affidavit within two weeks