Identity Theft For Dummies
What should I shred? How do I read my credit report? Is it safe to shop online? Find out!Identity theft costs billions of dollars each year to people just like you. This book shows you how to protect your personal information, reveals risks you may not have thought about, helps you learn whether you've already been victimized, and explains the steps you need to take to reclaim your good name and your good credit.Shred before you shed — why you should avoid placing anything in your garbage that contains personal informationBe vigilant — learn how to regularly monitor your bank accounts and credit card statementsAm I hit? — what to watch for so you can tell as soon as possible whether your identity has been stolenStick with the coffee — why a cybercafé may be a bad place to shop online or check your bank balanceCompare services — assess different companies that offer identity theft protectionOops, they got me — know what to do first if your identity is stolen and what information you need to haveCyber-wary — identify the protection you already have, whether it's adequate, and how to secure information on your computerThe walls have ears — learn to stay safe in public placesOpen the book and find:How to understand your credit reportTips on making a security planHow and when to complete a fraud affidavitReasons for placing fraud alerts on your credit reportInformation you need to open or close accountsChecklists and phone numbers for reporting lossesSensible steps to keep you safeWhat NOT to carryLearn to:Recognize and avoid common scamsProtect your personal information offline and onlineInterpret and monitor your credit reportRestore your good name if you are victimized