Tips to Prevent Identity Theft

  1.  Check Your Credit Report. 
Periodically check credit reports from each of the three major credit reporting agencies and review your file to make sure the information is correct.   
2.  Set Up a Fraud Alert
Request the major credit reporting agencies to attach a fraud alert to your credit report.   When opening a new credit account, lenders are required to contact you by phone to verify you realy want to open the account.
3.  Freeze Your Credit
In California, you can place a security freeze on your credit reports.  Unless provided with a PIN or password to the credit bureau, lenders will not have access to your credit report and an identity theif will not be able to get new loans and credit in your name.  Bear in mind that when you do wish to move forward on a new credit application, a "freeze" may delay your application process.
4.  Properly Discard Documents
Tear up financial solicitations before throwing them away and destroy any other financial documents before disposing of them.  Invest in a home paper shredder for all sensitive documents.
5.  Monitor Mailings and Phone Calls.
Check yoiur mail for unusual mailings appearing to be from lenders or others requesting financial information.  Be cautious of giving out personal information to persons calling claiming to be from a company with whomyou do business.

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