8 Ways Protect Your Identity from Scams

1. Guard your financial information closely. Never give out your bank card, credit card, social security number or financial information unless you initiated the transaction and you trust the merchant.
2. Beware of imposters. Cons may look and sound like a company or bank you do business with, but trusted merchants will never call you to obtain personal information.
   
3. Only call a known company phone number and when online, never enter a website from an email—type the known URL into your browser.
4. Protect your snail mail. Pick it up promptly, have it picked up when you're away, and if possible, get a secure, locked mailbox.
5. Shred all offers you receive by mail. Once your trash can is on the street for pickup, it is public property, so anyone can help themselves to what's inside.
6. Lock your "valuables". Keep a fire safe for important documents such as wills, titles, financial information, passports and social security cards. Use passwords to protect your computer, PDA, phone or any device that has identity information.
7. Memorize your passwords and PINs. Never keep them with cards, your wallet, your car or other identifying information.
8. Check your credit report regularly. It's like going to the dentist…you don't enjoy it, but doing it keeps you healthy and prevents problems later.
9. Want to know how to spot a fake or "phishing" website?