Identity Theft

what is dumpster diving?

the thief rummages through the trash to steal mail or bills with your name on it

what is skimming

the thief steals credit or debit card info with a special device when processing your card

what is phishing

the pretend to be banks, fake mail

what is an example of phishing

the IRS ma send you a piece of mail asking for personal info

how does a thief steal your identity through changing your address

they file a change of address, creating a new address for you so they can receive your bills so they can access your info

what is an example of stealing

stealing wallets, purses, and even mail out of your mailbox\`

what is pretexting

they use false info to get your personal info from financial institutions, phone companies, and others

what is hacking

the thief hack into your computer or another computer system to access your info

what is a way to keep your socia security number safe

keeping it in a secure place

why is keeping your social security number safe important

the thief can figure out almost everything there is to know about you with that one number

how can buying a small paper shredder be helpful to prevent identity theft

any information sent to you from your bank or insurance companies that is personal can be shredded before throwing away

what should you use on your credit card, bank and cell phone accounts

a password that other people cant/dont know or figure out

why should you never give out personal info with other people

thiefs can be very convincing and tricky, so its better to be safe than sorry.

what should you ONLY carry when you go out

only your ID and the debit/credit cards you need when going out

why should you avoid promotional offers

they could be fake

why should you keep your purse or wallet in a safe space

so thieves have less of an opportunity to steal it