ID Theft Prevention Tips for RVers...and others too

ID Theft Prevention Tips for RVers Shred any documents, mail or bills that you no longer need which contain any personal information. Limit the amount of personal information you carry with you. Take only those cards and documents that are necessary. Do not carry your social security card with you unless it's absolutely necessary. Memorize your number. Photocopy your passport and both sides of cards you carry in your wallet (e.g., credit cards, driver's license, Medicare and insurance cards). Keep these photocopies in a safe place in your rig and in your home (or with a trusted family member if you are a full-timer) along with a list of the toll-free numbers to call for each in case they are lost or stolen. Report lost or stolen credit or debit cards as soon as you realize they are missing. Write "See Photo ID" on the back of your credit cards instead of signing them. Don't write your phone number on a check. If requested to provide a number, use your cell phone number. Use a P.O. Box or mailing service, such as EarthClass Mail to have your mail held or forwarded, if you are on the road for long periods of time. Never put your entire account number on checks when making a payment. Instead use just the last four digits. Mail all bills/checks from the post office or a U.S mailbox. Don't use obvious passwords like your mother's maiden name, your birth date or last four digits of your social security number. Don't give out personal information on the phone, Internet or mail unless you are absolutely sure you know who you are dealing with (beware of scammers!). Before entering personal information on a site, always make sure it is secure. Use firewalls and up-to-date antivirus software and anti-spyware to protect your computer. Request your free credit reports each year. Review your financial accounts and billing statements on a regular basis. Consider signing up with a company  whose mission is to keep your identity safe. If you do suspect you may be a victim of identity theft, place a "fraud alert" on your credit reports and review the reports carefully, close any of your accounts that have been tampered with or established fraudulently and file a report with law enforcement officials to help you with creditors who may want proof of the crime. You should also report the theft to the Federal Trade Commission. Identity theft is on the rise, but by playing it smart, you can better prevent it from happening to you. As you set out on your next RV adventure, don't forget to take precautions to keep your identity safe. It's well worth it when you consider the alternatives. *Source: www.ftc.gov/idtheft