Free Annual Credit Report

Each day, we struggle to provide for our families and strive for a better life. We toil at our jobs and try to be fiscally responsible in order to preserve our credit scores. Ideally, our hard work yields dividends. With a strong credit score and savings tucked safely away, we rest more easily each night. But, for most people, the security they feel is more vulnerable than they imagine. The comfort they feel with their finances and credit score can be ripped away from them.

Identity theft is on the rise. Every day, innocent people discover that their financial lives are all but ruined due to someone gaining access to their sensitive information. Fortunately, you can protect yourself from exposure. Identity theft protection is largely a matter of proactively taking measures to keep thieves away. Below, we’ll give you 4 ways that you can help protect your identity and your financial life.

Identity Theft Protection

#1 – Shred Credit Card Offers

Credit card companies want your business. They send millions of offers to consumers each week. The problem is that thieves can use these offers to help them gain access to your identity. They can combine the information on these “pre-approved” card offers with other data collected from your trash to build a fake profile. Once they’ve done this, they can easily open credit cards under your name. Before you discard credit card offers, shred them.

#2 – Review Your Credit Report

This is one of the easiest (and most effective) things you can do to protect your identity. Sadly, most people neglect to do it. You should review your credit report at least once a year. You’ll be able to identify new credit card accounts, loans and other obligations that have been opened in your name. If you notice unfamiliar items, it’s possible that someone has been trying to steal your identity. Request a credit report once a year. It takes very little time to review and doing so doesn’t cost anything.

#3 – Use Strong Passwords

Today, thieves can use resources online to steal your identity. It’s critical that you use strong passwords for your online accounts. Most people are lazy when it comes to choosing their passwords. As a result, they’ll use the same password for their bank accounts, online profiles, brokerage accounts, car insurance and more. Use passwords that are at least 8 characters long and choose a different one for each account. Don’t use names. Instead, use strings of alphanumeric values. Strong passwords discourage identity thieves.

#4 – Review Your Statements

Most identity thieves rely on the fact that the majority of people don’t check their monthly statements. So, criminals can gain access to your checking account or existing credit card accounts, knowing that most fraudulent activity will likely go unnoticed. Get into the habit of reviewing your bank and credit card statements every month. If something looks unfamiliar, investigate it immediately.

Identity Theft Protection And Peace Of Mind

Having your identity stolen and your financial life ripped apart in front of you can be devastating. The things you worked so hard to attain or provide for others can be more vulnerable than you imagine. But, protecting your identity is mostly a matter of being proactive. Use the tips above to prevent thieves from gaining access to your personal information. Investing a little time can help prevent your becoming a victim to identity theft.