Protecting Your Identity

Identity theft is one of the fastest growing crimes in America. A dishonest person who has your Social Security number can use it to get other personal information about you. Identity thieves can use your number and your good credit to apply for more credit in your name. Then, they use the credit cards and do not pay the bills. You may not find out that someone is using your number until you are turned down for credit or you begin to get calls from unknown creditors demanding payment for items you never bought.

According to the Social Security Administration, you should:

• Show your card to your employer when you start a job so your records are correct.
• Provide your Social Security number to your financial institution(s) for tax reporting purposes.
• Keep your card and any other document that shows your Social Security number on it in a safe place.
• DO NOT routinely carry your card or other documents that display your number.

Tips to Help Protect Yourself

• Set reminders periodically to review your credit report.
• Securely dispose of mail. Thoroughly shred preapproved credit card offers and anything that includes any account information.
• Opt out of junk mail and preapproved credit card offers. This can be done at OptOutPrescreen.com.
• Invest in a locking mailbox.