Yahoo! Answers*

Question:

What do I need to safe guard or distroy so someone can not steal my Identity?

Answers:

1) You should safeguard your social security number. When you get paperwork with your SS number on it, you should shred it when no longer needed. The same goes with bills with account numbers on them. I am looking into a service called LifeLock which guarantees protection of your personal information and social security number. It costs $10 per month, but sounds well worth it. Check it out at "LifeLock.com".

2) The best way is to NEVER share your SS number with someone other than an employer. If they have any other part of your identification (birthday, name) it is ridiculously easy to then steal someone ID. So - don't share your SS

3) Give your credit card number only to known and trusted companies. Have just one specific card for online shopping and let the bank know that is the purpose of that card so that if the information gets stolen it is very limited information and a low limit card. Most banks will do that now. Shred all regular mail and junk mail that has any identifier on it. If you have door to door mail delivery have a locked box or have an opening in door. Use you debit card as little as possible. The more often you use it, the more chances of the information being stolen. When you enter your PIN number cover or shelter the number pad. Change all passwords frequently. Do online banking only from secure locations. Check your credit rating and credit reports a couple of times a year so that you are aware of what is happening. Check credit card statements and bank statements carefully. Do not carry your social security number / social insurance number on you. Have it in a safe place, such as a safety deposit box, unless you need it for a specific purpose. Do not leave bank statements and credit card statements lying around at home. People who break in today are looking for those kinds of things probably more than for valuables. Those are the sorts of things I try to be aware of. I hope this helps.

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