Identity theft is something that we hear about all the time, but don’t take into consideration that it can happen to us.  We may know someone that it happened to, and think we know everything about it but never think it’s possible for us.  A person’s identity is being stolen every single day.  Not to mention, according to the FTC, there were 9.9 million victims of identity theft just in the United States last year!  With such a large number, you know that it is a big issue that needs to be stopped, or at least minimized.

Identity theft is when someone steals your identity to then commit fraud with your name.  They will get your name, and do whatever they want.  Whether it’s buy expensive items, do bad things, etc.  If you’re looking to prevent yourself from identity theft, you may want to consider a few of these tips below!

Shred – First of all, you should always shred any mail you get.  If your name is on it, and you have account numbers on it shred it!  You never want to take the chance of someone else getting a hold of your papers or mail because they can now claim them as theirs with your name.  So either burn your mail or shred it instead of just tossing it in the garbage.

Passwords – Also, if you have accounts online you should always have a password to them.  Not to mention, you should choose a password that no one would know.  Choose something with numbers and something that has nothing to do with you.

E-mails – A lot of people will get e-mails from their “bank accounts or credit card accounts” asking you to sign in because you have a “message”.  Never sign in to an account through your e-mail.  This may be linked to someone and now they have access to your account.  Instead, sign in through their website!

Statements – You should always keep an eye on your statements.  Log in occasionally to make sure that everything is going the way it should.

Credit report – Also, you should get a credit report done yearly.  You’re allowed to get a free one each year, which is highly recommended.  You will be able to see your credit score, how much debt you have, etc.  If these numbers seem correct, you should be fine.  Although, if they don’t and something seems fishy, you may have a problem.  It is always better to find out about these things before it gets too out of hand!

Preventing your identity is a very important thing to do.  It is also important to learn about more about it.  There are cases happening every single day to people just like you.  Who says you won’t be a victim?  Get informed, and start protecting yourself today!