Identity fraud is one of the fastest growing financial crimes in America, accounting for losses of billions of dollars every year. The Minneapolis Police Department offers these hints for protecting yourself.
- Don’t have your drivers license number or Social Security number printed on your checks.
- Don’t carry your Social Security card or birth certificate in your wallet or purse.
- Try not to carry more than one credit card in your wallet.
- Shred all credit card offers mailed to you.
- Never give your credit card number or bank account information to anyone calling you.
- Sign your credit cards with your name AND write: “Ask to see picture ID”.
- Review monthly bills carefully for unexplained charges.
- Shred all documents with account numbers before disposing them.
Order your credit report from the three major credit bureaus each year and make sure the information is correct.
Credit Bureaus
Experian 1-888-397-3742
TransUnion 1-800-680-7289
Equifax 1-800-525-6285
