How to Prevent Identity Theft - How to Fight Identity Theft

Identity theft is one of the fastest growing crimes in the world and so it is vital that everyone learn how they can prevent identity theft. In this article we will be covering a couple of tips that you can use to fight identity theft and protect yourself.
The first step in order to prevent identity theft is being aware of it and how it can happen. Once one realizes how identity theft occurs and the type of information that criminals look for you are better able to protect this information. The main areas you should watch out for in this area are your credit card details, social security number and other personal details.
Before giving out your social security number to anyone ask them why they need it, what it will be used for and what would happen if you refuse to give it to them. By asking this information you will be better informed as to whether you actually want to give out this information to them. Do not carry your social security number around with you and keep it locked up in a safe place at home.
Credit card identity theft is a huge business and one that we all need to be careful of. In order to fight identity theft only carry around credit cards with you when you will be using them and try not to carry too many cards at once. When you receive any credit cards make a copy of both sides and keep this filed in a safe place.
Prevent identity theft by being extra careful with your mail. Lock mail boxes, remove your name from mailing lists and opt out of receiving credit offers. All of these put you at risk of having mail stolen that can be used for identity theft purposes.
Another way to prevent identity theft is to shred all mail that you are discarding. This stops people from going through trash and getting your personal details off old mail. This applies to all documents which contain personal information that could be used in an identity theft case.
Fight identity theft by regularly ordering credit reports on yourself and using these to check that no other credit cards have been opened in your name.
It is also important to fight identity theft online. This can be done by ensuring proper internet and computer security. Make sure you use anti-virus software, only open email attachments if you know where they are from and what they contain, use firewall software and passwords on your computer.
In conclusion, it is important for everyone