Identity theft is a frightening crime. These kinds of thieves can destroy your credit or even commit other crimes using your name. There are many things you can do to help protect your identity. Let’s take a look at a few of them:
- Don’t Overshare
Identity thieves aren’t likely to announce themselves, so it’s a good idea to be cautious about the things you share with strangers. While it’s probably harmless to tell the woman at the bar all about your stamp collection or favorite television show, you should keep things like your phone number, address, and family information to yourself. If a stranger volunteers such information about him or herself to you, realize that you don’t have to reciprocate.
- Store Important Documents Safely
Any financial document or other important document that you need should be kept in a safe and secure location, such as a locking filing cabinet or a document safe. The documents you no longer need should be torn up or shredded before being thrown away.
- Monitor Your Bank And Credit Accounts
If you can get into the habit of checking your accounts online once a day, you’ll be the first to know when something suspicious is going on. Keep an eye out for unfamiliar charges to your debit and/or credit card, even if those charges are for small dollar amounts. Also, keep an eye out for any new credit accounts being opened in your name.
If you’re facing identity theft charges or other white collar crime charges in the Newark area, contact an experienced criminal defense attorney at the Law Offices of Robert J. DeGroot.
