Identity Theft: The Perils and how to prevent it

Having your identity stolen is serious business! While some people simply misplace their wallet while traveling or leave their card behind after a night on the town, others are having their identities stolen from information that is snatched electronically from their wallets - without anything ever going missing. We are talking about wallets that do not offer RFID protection.

Technology is a wonderful thing these days, but it can also be our greatest downfall if not secure.  There is technology available that can scan your credit card information from your wallet while it’s still in your pocket. Don’t let yourself become victim! If so, here are some of the ways things can go wrong:

What Can an Identity Thief Do with my Information?

Unfortunately, they can do a lot more damage than many people expect. Once they have your personal information, they could go on a shopping spree with the money in your bank account. If they get your credit card information, they may rack up credit card debt that you cannot even fathom paying back. They might even open new utility accounts. With the right amount of information, they could receive medical treatment on your insurance and money. In some extreme cases, an identity thief may even give your name to the police while they are being arrested.

How Can I Tell if my Identity has been Stolen?

If any of the following have happened to you, then it is time for you to take immediate action:

  • You have unexplained purchases or withdrawals from your bank account, especially in other cities or states.
  • Your bills or other mail stop arriving at your home.
  • Your checks are turned away from places that normally accept checks.
  • Debt collectors call you about debts that you did not arrange.
  • You see unfamiliar accounts or charges on your credit report.
  • Medical providers bill you over a medical service that you never received.
  • Your health plan rejects your claim because they have records that state you have used all of your benefits.
  • The IRS informs you that more than one tax return was filed in your name, or that you have income recorded from an employer you never worked for.
  • You were informed that your information may have been compromised by a company where you have an account or do regular business.
  • You are arrested for a crime that someone may have committed in your name.

What Can I Do to Prevent Identity Theft?

Luckily, there are many steps you can take to prevent yourself from becoming a victim of identity theft. Be sure to follow these tips to keep you and your family out of harm’s way:

  • Secure your social security number as best as you can. You can do this by not carrying your card in your wallet. Also, only give your social security number when it is absolutely necessary for you to do so.
  • Use two-step authentication for signing in to financial accounts.  Better to take a few more seconds signing in than leave yourself open to hackers.
  • Never respond to unexpected and unsolicited requests for your personal information, including your name, date of birth, social security number, bank account number, etc., over the phone, via mail, or even online.
  • Beware of people who may be watching you over your shoulder as you use ATM's. These people are trying to find out your PIN. Be sure to hide any passwords or PIN you may be entering at any time.
  • Get your mail each day as promptly as possible. And, if you must be away for a few days, contact the post office and ask them to hold your mail for you. You don’t want anyone to go into your mailbox and steal your information that way.
  • Keep track of your billing cycles. If you notice a bill is late, contact the sender immediately to ensure that nothing has been redirected somewhere you did not authorize.
  • Review your receipts and check to see that they align with what your bank statement says. You may find unauthorized purchases.
  • Shred items such as receipts, credit offers, expired cards, and account statements to avoid anyone from finding this personal information.
  • Store all your personal information in secure locations.

RFID Blocking Wallets

Sometimes, whatever tactics you take on to prevent yourself from being a victim of identity theft is not enough. Thieves can now scan the contents in your wallet without ever touching you and walk away with all your credit and debit card numbers. Don’t allow this to happen to you. WalletBe offers a huge selection of RFID blocking wallets for both women and men. And, with our incredible and diverse collection, you don’t have to sacrifice style for security. We offer accordion wallets, cell phone purses, keychain wallets, bi-folds, whatever style you are looking for, we guarantee that we have you RFID covered. Have it all when you choose anRFID blocking wallet from WalletBe today! 

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