Caution: Your Identity is at Risk
By Accel Members Financial Counseling

Identity Millions of Americans are affected each year by identity theft. If your identity is stolen, you could spend months or years and possibly thousands of dollars reclaiming your name and cleaning up the mess that the thief has left you.

You can minimize your risk by aggressively managing your personal information and through continual awareness of the problem. Here are some examples:

Social Security Number - The Key to Your Castle
  • Do not carry your Social Security number with you
  • Keep it in a secure location like a safe at home
  • Give your Social Security number only when it is absolutely necessary
  • Never put your Social Security number on checks
Passwords - As Good As Gold
  • Create passwords for all of your accounts
  • Do not use easily identifiable information
  • When you are asked for your mother’s maiden name on an application, try using a password instead
  • Store your passwords in a safe place like a safe at home
Technology - Be on the Lookout
  • Update your virus protection software regularly on your home computer
  • Use a secure browser to guard the privacy of your online transactions
  • Download security repairs or patches from your operating system’s website
  • Don’t download files from strangers or click on hyperlinks from people you don’t know
  • Keep a record of purchases made online
  • Avoid using the automatic log-in feature offered on online services that saves your username and password
At Home - Manage Your Personal Information
  • Buy a crosscut shredder and destroy unneeded documents that include personal information
  • Don’t leave personal information in plain view where roommates, relatives or outside help can see it
  • Stay on top of your finances, especially bill due dates, so you’ll know if a bill is missing
  • Report any questionable charges on your bills
  • Don’t put your credit card number or account number on checks when you pay your bills by mail
  • Keep all credit card receipts and cross reference them with your credit card statement to make sure you are billed for the correct items
  • Monitor your bank accounts and reconcile your checkbook regularly
  • Guard your mail and your trash
When You’re Out and About
  • If you pay for merchandise with a check, don’t allow the clerk to write your credit card number on the check
  • Carry only the information that you actually need
  • Don’t lay your credit card down on a counter or table
At Work - Practice Security and Question Everything
Protect your personal information at work. Find out who has access to your personal information and whether records are kept in a secure location. Also ask how records are destroyed when they become outdated. Make sure you protect what you can control as best you can. Then constantly monitor your financial records to make sure thieves haven’t gotten hold of the data that is out of your hands. The best offense is a good defense. Be aware of identity theft, keep close track of your information and report any suspicious activity immediately.