Chapel Hill Durham Real Estate

As promised, here are more ways to Keep your identity safe!

• When choosing computer passwords, use a combination of numbers and letters that cannot be tied to your personal information, i.e. birthday, parts of your social security number, etc.
• Be mindful of those around you when entering PIN (personal identification number) into ATM’s (automated teller machines) and when giving out personal information on the phone.
• Consider using a post office box to receive financial or other confidential documents.
• Compile a list of your important account numbers and the phone number to call in case of loss or theft. Store this list safely in a locked box or file cabinet.
• Beware of anyone asking for your personal information via email or phone if you did not make the initial contact. Usually, reputable companies will not solicit your information in this way.

The one thing that most people think will never happen to them, but CAN happen is Identity Theft.

There are some great ways to avoid it, however, and here I will list a few:

• Consistently check your credit reports for inaccuracies and unanticipated activity, as well as regularly reviewing bank and credit card statements for unexpected transactions and late arrivals.
• Shred items like credit card slips, bank statements, credit applications or any other document containing personal information, before you throw it away.
• Before entering your credit card number or personal infromation online, make sure you are on a secure web page. Some indications of a secure site include the padlock symbol or https in the address bar.
• Protect your family! Remind children and young adults not to share passwords or give out personal information. Check bank statements and watch for credit applications that come in your minor children’s names.
• Do not carry your social security card with you or have other confidential information, such as your driver’s license number, printed on identification cards or checks.

More ways to keep your identity your own coming soon. Keep an eye out for Avoid Identity Theft Part 2!