| |
Credit card fraud is an increasing crime, growing at the speed of the Internet. Consumers need to take measures to protect themselves and their families from becoming victims. Fortunately, there are easy ways to do it. Unfortunately, not enough of us take advantage of them. Don't be one of the unlucky ones. Make sure you implement all three of the following products and services in your line of credit card defense.
1. Credit Monitoring Services
Credit monitoring services are critical to protecting yourself from credit card fraud. They will send you regular alerts via email, text message and phone. These services let you know if changes have been made to your credit report and whether or not new credit accounts have been created.
While not free of charge, the protection offered significantly outweighs the fee. Not all credit monitoring services are created equal, so you'll want to do your homework before signing up. Just remember, they are well worth the investment.
2. A Shredder
Even if you don't have a single square foot of your home dedicated as home office space, you are still need of a shredder. Never, ever throw away personal documents and receipts without shredding them first.
Make sure you buy a shredder that is a cross-cut or confetti-cut model (strips can be pasted back together by patient crooks) and if you have pets and children, pay close attention to safety features. Some shredders are better than others at protecting toddler fingers and doggie tongues.
3. A Locking Mailbox
If you have a street-side mailbox, you need one that locks. You can't watch your mailbox 24 hours a day. Thieves know this. If your mailbox doesn't lock, the contents inside it become fair game and are considered easy pickings.
Any credit card statements or applications that are left in an unlocked mailbox can put you at risk of credit card fraud. A locking mailbox may be a bit of a pain if you receive packages that won't fit through the slot, but the hassle of falling victim to credit card fraud is worse.
Keeping yourself safe from credit-related crimes isn't hard. It's just a matter of some small investments and a few of very minor lifestyle changes. Remember, no one is protecting your identity or your credit card information for you. If you want to stay safe from credit card fraud, you have to take these measures yourself.
For more tips on credit card safety including saving money and avoiding getting taken, check out CreditCardWhizKid.com, a website that specializes in providing credit card tips, advice and resources.
 EasyPublish™ this article - publishers click here
More articles by Sean Masterson
- Three Popular Techniques For Paying Off Debts (Michael Redbourn)
Many people in the U.S. are now trying to crawl out from underneath stifling debt, but they're not doing it in a systematic way. They mean well, but they are wasting thousands of their dollars by not paying off their debts in a proven way. Some methods are obviously better than others and you can read about their weaknesses and strengths here. - Should You Pay Off Your Credit Cards With A Personal Loan? (Michael Redbourn)
Most Americans have lots of credit cards, with varying interest rates, and right now, many are asking themselves if they'll be able to keep up with the payments. The question arises, as to whether or not it would be fiscally sounder to take out a personal loan, in order to pay off all the credit cards. The answer to the question is neither difficult nor easy, but a little knowledge is definitely required in order to make the right choice.
|
