Sheriff’s Tip of the Week: Identity Theft | News

“Dumpster divers” pick up information that has been thrown away, such as utility bills, magazines, credit card bills or solicitations, and other documents.

Thieves will even take mail out of your mailbox before you have a chance to pick it up. It could take years to recover from just one incident of identity theft. Below are some tips to help keep you and your identity safer.

Do not throw anything away that contains your name and address. Shred all documents, including pre-approved credit applications received in your name, insurance forms, bank checks and statements, and other financial or personal information. Magazine and newspaper labels with your name and address should be shredded as well. A micro-cut shredder is best, but for those with strip shredders, adding water to the strips of paper in a plastic bag and mixing it up will damage the paper and prevent anyone from taping the strips together.

Secure Mail and Deliveries

Pick up your mail as soon as possible from your mailbox. If you are going to be out of town, have the post office hold your mail until you return. Consider getting a locking mailbox to prevent others from accessing your mail.

Do not put your social security number (SSN) on checks or credit receipts. If a business requests your social security number, give them an alternate number and explain why. If a government agency requests your social security number, there should be a privacy notice accompanying the request.

Make a list of your credit card and bank account numbers with customer service phone numbers and keep it…