Preventing Identity Theft

“STOP” Identity Theft

To reduce or minimize the risk of becoming a victim of identity theft, teach your family to remember to "STOP" before they release any personal information:

S for "Search"

You should search all your statements for any unfamiliar entries, large or small. Many identity thieves steal small amounts of money from numerous accounts so that it goes unnoticed for a long time.

T for “Teach”

Teach your family to guard your information like it is a family member. Have them adopt a "need to know" approach to your personal data. If someone does not need the information, it’s OK to say no.

O for “Order”

Order a copy of your credit reports at least once a year. Your credit report will list all bank and financial accounts under your name, and will provide other indications of whether someone has wrongfully opened or used any accounts in your name. Instructions for requesting your annual credit report are in the “Credit Bureaus” section of this book.

P is for “Protect”

Protect your information verbally and physically. When someone asks, don’t release the information easily. If you carry a wallet or purse, carry only the minimal number of cards you need. Never carry your SSN/SIN or birth certificate.

To prevent identity theft - Search Teach Order Protect

Despite your best efforts to manage the flow of your personal information, or to keep it to yourself, skilled identity thieves may use a variety of methods to gain access to your data. Here are some of the ways they acquire your personal information, and what you can do to prevent it

Become Security Aware

• Protect your information like you would a family member

• Never tell anyone personal information unless absolutely necessary

• Carry only minimal identification

• Never let your wallet or purse leave your sight at work

• Never let anyone take your credit card out of your sight

• Use your other hand as a block when you enter your pin number

• Never click on a link in an email

• Keep your car registration in the trunk

• Keep all personal information at home secure, away from relatives and friends

• Crosscut shred all personal papers

• Never answer survey questions

• Use gel pens when writing checks so the ink cannot be washed and changed

• Use software protection on all your computers

• Conduct regular searches for spyware and key loggers on your computers

• Maintain strong wireless protection on laptops and at home

• Guard against laptop theft, even at work

• Use locked mailboxes or a mail drop

• Get an annual credit report

• Teach your family never to discuss personal information with anyone, even relatives

• Ensure only required staff have access to your personal information at work