Identity theft doesn’t stop during the holiday’s …..

    I recently received an email that I thought was from my bank asking for some information because supposedly my online bank account access had been compromised.  The email looked like it was officially from my bank and at the time I was busy multi-tasking so I was not completely paying 100% attention.  To make a long story short I filled out the questionnaire and immediately realized, after submitting their form, that I had been duped by an elaborate phishing scam which had me fooled. After realizing what I had done I called my insurance company, Zander Insurance, who has my Identity Theft Insurance policy, to alert them to what happened.  They were quick to have me put a fraud alert on all three credit agencies, Experian, TransUnion, and Equifax.  They also outlined several things that I would need to do to ensure that I stay protected from these scammers who troll the web looking for unsuspecting prey.  I almost fell victim to these people and I’ve definitely learned my lesson.  For the longest time I thought identity theft couldn’t happen to me but the moment that you think you are safe is when it can happen.  I am a testament to that.  I would highly recommend that you purchase an inexpensive Identity Theft Insurance policy from Zander Insurance or your local Insurance Agency.  You can reach the folks at Zander by clicking here.

Here are some helpful Identity theft tips for you to consider during the holiday’s….

• Do not lend your credit/debit card or ATM card to anyone, not even a family member to purchase a gift
• Never let your credit/debit card out of your sight when making a purchase at a store.
• Make sure the store clerk swipes the card in front of you.  If they have to take your card somewhere to swipe it, insist on accompanying them
• Apply for a store credit card online – do not fill out a paper application that requires your social security number.
• Be careful shopping online or over the phone at work.  Someone could be looking over your shoulder or listening to you give out your credit card information to make a purchase.
• If you plan to travel during the holidays, stop your mail and your paper.
• Be aware of your personal space while shopping and protect your wallets and purses.
• Do not leave personal items in your car at a mall parking lot such as a laptop containing your personal information.
• Keep track of all your credit card receipts and do not throw them away without shredding them first.
• Minimize what you carry in your wallet so that thieves do not get much if they steal your wallet
• Print out any orders you make online as well as email exchanges.
• You should never need your social security number to make a purchase
• Approach online auctions with caution.  Before you make a purchase you should know the rules and return policies of the site as well as the seller’s terms.
• Make sure to shred all credit card offers that come in the mail.
• Go to www.optoutprescreen.com and remove your name from the “firm offer” credit card offers.

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