Tips to avoid identity theft

According to The Federal Trade Commission (FTC), the most common ways identity thieves steal personal information from consumers is through social security numbers, personal identification numbers (PINs), account numbers and passwords. This information can be obtained from homes, businesses, electronic networks, trash baskets and dumpsters.

To minimize identity theft the FTC advises consumers to take these steps:
• Don’t give out personal information on the phone or through mail unless you’re positive the contact is a reliable source.
• Treat mail and trash
• Leave your Social Security card at home
• Use strong passwords

For more information about the governments plan to stop identity theft and how you can protect yourself, visit: http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/pubs/consumer/idtheft/idt04.shtm.