Identity theft is in the news more and more often.
Nothing is worse that finding out the hard way
that someone has stolen your identity.
For example - a week before you are scheduled to
close on your new home, you get a call from your lender
to tell you they can no longer grant your loan
because of the furniture you charged on your credit card...
except you did not buy any furniture.
Yikes!
Once someone has started using your identity
you are fighting an uphill battle to fix the problem,
but there are some easy things you can do to protect yourself
so you don't end up in that situation.
8 Easy Ways to Protect Your Identity:
One
Don't share your personal information on social media
or by e-mail. This includes your Social Security number,
address, and date of birth, etc...
Two
Make sure you have anti-virus software, anti-spyware software
and a firewall installed on your computer.
Three
Use strong passwords on any accounts you access on your computer.
Don't use the same password for every site.
Four
If you keep a file of bills or personal information at home,
make sure it is locked...and don't leave the key in the lock.
Five
Shred anything with personal information (such as bills)
that you don't need before you throw it away.
Six
When you go away, request a hold from the post office
so mail with personal information is not left in the mailbox.
Seven
Check accounts for unauthorized activity and
your credit report on a regular basis.
Eight
Ask the company who insures your home if they offer
identity theft insurance and purchase it.
Are you interested in more tips to help with
buying or selling a home in Maine?
Let us help!
Call us at
(207)784-3800
or e-mail us at brenda@fontaineteam.com.
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