Credit Cards and Identity Theft

Identity theft is not an Internet-borne crime. Before the rise of the online world, there were plenty of credit card thieves and check kiting (fraud) schemes. However, the web has provided identity criminals with new opportunities, and consumers with new challenges.

Crime doesn't pay, but it sure can get a reader's attention. Perhaps that's why so many news services have run scary stories about identity theft. Frightened as consumers may be, many have not done an adequate job of safeguarding their social security number, date of birth, and other private information.

While there is no 100 percent guaranteed method of protection, taking a few online and offline precautions can ensure that you won't be easy-pickings for some of the craftier identity crooks:

Online protection

Passwords: If you use a web service that asks if you'd like your password automatically entered in the login box, say no. It's convenient, but the data file where the auto-fill is stored is an easy target for hackers. Just write down your password in a readily accessible location, and enter it manually every time that you visit the site. And always use numbers and symbols in any password you create.

Phishing: A common tactic among identity thieves is to trick you into revealing your password and other information by posing as the company that you currently use. They may send you an email stating that there is a problem with your account, and that you need to double-check your information. They'll provide you with a link, which will ask you for your birthdate or other information. Don't bite. To check on your account, always go through the company's website via its regular webpage, or call for a customer service representative.

Offline protection

Credit reports: One of the more frightening elements regarding identity theft is that you don't know you're a victim until your credit card bill arrives. To protect yourself, your credit card company and your bank should allow you to check recent transactions online. Check in every couple of days to ensure that no additional purchases were made. You can also pull up a credit report every couple of months to check that there are no errors. If there are, report any discrepancies to the bureau as soon as possible.

Keep your information safe

Protect the physical records of your information. Keep your passport, driver's license, and social security card in a fireproof safe or bank vault. You'll also want to keep a handy record of all your account numbers and related customer service phone numbers. In the event of identity theft, time is of the essence, and you'll need to contact all the necessary parties to inform them that you've been fleeced.

Consumers should view safeguarding personal information as just another part of daily life. It's like locking the doors to your car. Locking the doors to your identity---or at least making them a challenge for thieves to get through-can save both countless dollars and hours of aggravation.