Keep your identity safe during the holiday season

As the holiday spending season fast approaches, you’ll want to be sure to protect yourself against identity theft.

To do this, you need to understand the dangers of identity theft and the actions you can take to prevent it. Although many of the methods used to steal identities are not within our control, there are measures you can take to minimize the risk of becoming a victim of identity theft.

Protect Your Credit Card Number

When making a purchase with your credit or debit card, check the receipt to make sure that it lists only the last 4 digits of your card number. The first 12 digits are usually replaced by Xs. If they aren't, you are permitted by law to mark out the first 12 digits on the merchant’s copy with a pen.

It’s especially important to check your credit card receipt when you use it at a restaurant. If all 16 digits are shown on the receipt, don't leave the restaurant's copy on the table. Cross out the first 12 digits and hand the receipt to the wait staff personally. If you don’t, you run the risk of having an identity thief walk away with your name, account number, and possibly your card's expiration date.

Only Use Your Social Security Number When Necessary

Although you must provide your social security number when you apply for credit, open a bank account, or accept a job, you don’t usually need to use it in other circumstances. Some stores or organizations use social security numbers as ID numbers, although this practice is discouraged by law and is decreasing. If you run across it, ask whether they will provide an alternative and then use your best judgment.

To an Identity Thief, Your Trash is Treasure

A good paper shredder is the most important investment you can make to protect your identity. Identity thieves will go through your trash to find personal information that will enable them to get credit in your name. Anything with your name, date of birth, social security number, credit card number, bank information, and phone number should be thoroughly shredded. Do it both at home and at work.

The holiday season is a time to enjoy shopping for our loved ones and friends. Every swipe of our credit cards, however, exposes us to risk of identity theft unless we take measures to protect our information from unscrupulous people.

Keep Your Identity Safe During the Holiday Madness