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Few things are as distressing as finding out that you have been the victim of identity theft. It can take years of work to undo the damage caused by identity theft, and unlike other, more personal crimes, you can’t very well use a stun gun to prevent being targeted.

Fortunately, there is much you can do proactively to avoid making identity theft easy for the perpetrators.

Eliminate Documents in a Timely Manner

Unfortuntely there are numerous documents that have made it quick and easy for a person to steal your identity. Credit card statements, medical bills and anything that has your social security number upon it should be shredded as a matter of course. Destroy your old credit card receipts, junk mail offers and any other document that has any significant personal information upon it.

Be Aware of Shoulder Surfers

There are some places where shoulder surfing is particularly common. The ATM, at a phone booth, or even your computer at work are all popular haunts. Cover up the keypad or keep a button on your computer assigned to dim the screen immediately if you feel someone is looking on. 

The latest trick these days is for individuals to employ their cell phones so that they can engage the video feature to capture the PIN numbers you enter while at the ATM. A quick enlargement gives them your number, and all that is left is to pick your pocket to access your bank accounts.

Eliminate Your Digital Files

If you keep personal data on your computer, destroy the files as soon as you have finished using them. Also, be very careful about using your computer in a public space. While it is tempting to sit at your favorite coffee shop, using their open network to get your work done in comfort, it also leaves your computer open to virtual attack.

Keep An Eye On Your Banking Statements Every Month

Thankfully this remains to be the easiest way to obtain your personal identification. Not long ago, I paid someone by check and they used that check to have a set of checks printed with their name instead. After a couple of checks went in and out of order, plus having the wrong information on them, I was able to quickly and easily notice because of the simple fact that I make sure to check my statement each month. A small problem was solved almost instantly. And yet if I didn't look at my statements, who knows how much money I could have ended up losing as a result.

Get your Credit Report Every Year

The government requires that the three major credit companies provide you with a free credit report once a year. Get it and check to see that no incorrect information has been attached. Errors occur, from time to time, and can be innocent. However, if someone has raided your mailbox and taken a credit card out in your name, this may be the only way to catch it. Don’t let their bad habits ruin your name.

Just like a stun gun jolt, or even pepper spray to the eyes, the damage that is delivered by identity theft although temporary, is painful. Fortunately, you can correct the situation, even if it takes time and effort.

Tags: identity theft, legal, Pepper Spray, Stun gun