So how do you do this? Being an identity theft attorney, we’ve experienced numerous clients come up to us, asking about how they can resolve their identity theft issues, which have affected their credit score and even their chances of gaining a house or auto loan. If identity theft has not affected you yet, or hopefully ever, we give you a few suggestions on how you can protect your personal information and finances from malicious entities:
1 Destroy Private Records and Statements When Not in Use
As much as possible, when you are no longer using a document that contains your personal information, like credit card statements, solicitations, and the likes, you should shred or tear it up so that no entity can use it to steal your identity to make any transaction. If it’s still in use, you have to place these documents in a secure place where no one can find it or keep it close with you.
2 Be Cautious When Purchasing Online
Make sure that the website you’re purchasing your items from is secure. You can check the padlock icon where the URL is to check if the website you have is secure. Oftentimes, Google will warn you if the website is not secure. Hence, if you’re planning to purchase any items there, be wary. It may be susceptible to data breaches, and any unknown entity could hack into the website’s system and take your personal information. That’s why always get shop from reputable and trusted online stores like Amazon and the likes.
3 Protect Your Information on Your Mobile Device
Always have a secure lock on your phone with a personal identification number (PIN). This way, no one can easily go through your phone and take your credit card information and the likes. You should also keep your software updated with complex passwords and two-factor identification, if available. Also, when transferring one file to another cellphone, immediately turn off your Bluetooth when identity theft lawyer not in use. Furthermore, be cautious when using public WiFi and downloading free apps on the internet, like Torrents as it could contain malware.
4 Always Double-Check Your Financial and Medical Statements
Double-check our credit card and bank statements to see any discrepancies in its record. You have to make sure that you recognize every transaction stated in the document. Know all the due dates and get in touch with the company to investigate if you have not received a bill. Always store your healthcare records in a secure place, and shred any document that’s no longer needed.
5 Monitor Your Credit Reports Frequently
Know that you are entitled to an annual credit report yearly from each of the three major credit card reporting bureaus. Think about getting one report every four months, so you can check if there have identity theft attorney been any suspicious or incorrect transactions in your record throughout the year.
These are only a few suggestions we have for you. Should you be experiencing any identity theft-related cases, feel free to get in touch with an identity theft attorney in Annapolis, Maryland to handle your case.
Baneylaw, P.C. Bankruptcy and Consumer Law has been in the business in serving consumers who have been wronged and have faced debt collection abuse from third party entities. Nathan D. Baney not only deals with bankruptcy but also helps resolve cases of identity theft, debt collection abuse, and background check errors by educating you on your rights as a consumer and representing you in court.
To know more, get in touch via phone call today!