We cannot prevent identity theft from happening, just like we cannot prevent someone from mugging us. We can, however, do things that will make us less likely to become targets. Here are a few areas we need to watch and take steps to minimize the risks of becoming a victim of identity theft and fraud.

           These guidelines will help you to be aware of what you are giving or telling people and how much information you might want them to have. The key is to know who you’re talking to. If you initiate contact with a business you will probably use a phone number or website from sources you already have, like statements. But if you receive a call or email about the company - you don’t really know where it came from,  who it is from or if they really are who they say they are. Don’t be intimidated by a caller or email that demands immediate action. Many times this is a ploy to scare you into giving them the information they want. Intimidation is the gun in your face in our high tech times. 

          Today the majority of identity thieves get the information they need by low tech means. Only 11% are due to online or electronic methods. This means that your daily life, your daily course of doing business and your habits, are providing the thieves with the means and opportunity to commit theft or fraud. Don't let your information become available when you could be doing something to reduce your risks.