Protect Your Identity From Theft

Identity theft is one of the most prevalent crimes in the United States today. Every year, millions of Americans are victims of identity theft. If you are experiencing new and unexplained credit problems in Phoenix, it may have happened to you. One of the first things you should do is check your credit reports for erroneous information. Equifax, Experian and Transunion are the three major credit bureaus, and you may obtain a detailed report from each of them. Look for things like unauthorized accounts, late payments and incorrect balances. Check them against your own records and receipts. If you notice any discrepancies, try to resolve them with the individual creditor making the claim. If they will not work with you, please call the Stockton Law Offices at 866.682.8776 right away. If you are experiencing unexplained credit problems in San Diego or Phoenix, an experienced Arizona or California credit report attorney may be able to help you restore your credit rating along with your good name.

There are two simple steps you can take to protect your individual identity from unauthorized use or outright theft. These are common sense steps, but not everyone is aware of them. Follow these steps to avoid unexplained credit problems in Scottsdale or anywhere else in the USA. First, be very cautious when sharing your Social Security number with anyone. You may be asked for your Social Security number when applying for charge accounts, seeking employment or opening a utility account in your name. Be advised that you do not have to provide this number, when other forms of identification are available. Do not have your Social Security number printed on your checks, and do not make a habit of carrying your card in your wallet.

Second, protect your mail. This means both your incoming and outgoing mail. When you receive credit card offers or insurance pitches by mail, shred them before throwing them away. You may opt out of receiving unsolicited credit card and insurance offers by logging into https://www.optoutprescreen.com and filling out a simple online form. Decline unsolicited offers for a period of five years by using this online form, or opt out permanently by submitting a snail mail application. There is no charge for this service.

Be careful with your outgoing mail. When you write a check to pay your credit card bill by mail, never write your full account number on the check. The last four digits of your account number written in the memo area of your check will be sufficient for your credit card company to know who you are. When you go on vacation, make sure to have your incoming mail held at the post office while you are away. A burgeoning mail box shows that you are not at home, and creates a tempting target for would-be identity thieves.

These simple steps will help you avoid the most common methods by which thieves may steal your identity. If you think your identity security may have already been compromised, stop everything you're doing and call Stockton Law Offices at 866.682.8776 immediately.