6 Steps to Safeguard Your Identity

When ID theft occurs, the victim faces numerous issues and challenges, not the least of which could be financial losses. Unfortunately, no one is immune to identity theft, and it’s because of this that you need to understand the risks and take the recommended steps to safeguard your personal information. Take a look:

1. Do not give out your information to unknown companies or people

It may seem like a no-brainer, but the fact is, giving any amount of personal information can be just enough for an ID criminal to steal your identity. Pay close attention to who you give information like your address, phone number, account numbers, birthdate, etc. to. Companies, telemarketers and other organizations should be well known to you–otherwise it’s best not to provide any personal info.

2. Don’t recycle bills or invoices

Bills or invoices, account statements, credit card statements, insurance statements and other similar documents must never be placed in the recycling bin. These documents contain just the sort of information that ID thieves are on the lookout for. 

3. Check your Credit Report often

Checking your credit report on a regular basis is a key step. ID theft is often discovered when a new account shows up on your credit report–checking often ensures that you can address this kind of fraud as early as possible. 

4. Never recycle junk mail

Although it seems innocuous, junk mail provides ID thieves with just enough information to steal your identity, including your name and address. Never throw credit card, loan offers, mortgage offers, etc. into the recycling bin, or any other items that have your personal information on them.

5. Keep track of bills and invoices you receive by mail

While it’s likely you receive many digital bills and statements, any bills that come via mail can cause a risk for ID theft. If you are missing a bill that you normally receive, it is best to reach out to your creditor. Missing credit card or other types of statements can mean that they have been stolen.

6. Shred unneeded, outdated and expired documents

Shredding is the only permanent way to destroy paperwork that is no longer needed.
Using a professional shredding company is the most secure method of destruction, as home shredders do not have the capacity to render the documents unreconstructable and unreadable.

All Points Mobile Shredding can help you protect your identity by providing professional shredding solutions. Our state-of-the-art shredding trucks come to you at your home or office and perform every shred onsite. This allows you to witness the entire process and we provide a certificate of destruction with every shred. Talk to us today about our residential and business shredding services or fill out this form to learn more.