1.  Beware of Unsolicited, Urgent Requests

Fraudulent emails or web sites often include logos and images from companies you know and trust. They also convey a sense of urgency, stating that if you fail to update your personal or account information, access to your accounts may be denied. If a request seems suspicious, call the company to check it out.

2.  Always Research the Other Party

Hire licensed contractors you have checked out with the Better Business Bureau, and never do business with door-to-door contractors or those asking for money in advance.  Also, use the internet to your advantage and seek out information on the company, contractor, or group.

3.  Protect Your Checks

Have Social Security and other benefit checks direct deposited in your account; mail checks inside the Post Office or bank online; have new boxes of checks sent to your bank rather than your home.

4.  Shred Your Mail

Make sure you shred all your junk mail before you throw it away especially credit card offers which could contain confidential data.

5.  Keep Important Documents Secure

Do not carry your Social Security Card in your wallet or purse unless you are on your way to use it.  Once you are finished with it, take it out and place the card in a secure area.  Keep other important documents (such as your birth/marriage certificates, driver's license and passport) in a safe place -- but not all together, if possible.

7.  Know What You are Signing

Never sign legal papers, make an investment, buy a car, or sign mortgage documents without reading and understanding what you’re signing – no matter how much you know or trust someone. Get a second or third opinion from a trusted advisor.

8.  Opt Our of Pre-Approved Offers

Call 1-888-5OPT-OUT or visit OptOutPrescreen.com to remove your name from pre-approved credit or insurance mailing lists.  You will then receive a form in the mail that you will have to sign and return.  You can indicate whether you would like your name taken off the list for five years or permanently.

9.  Be Careful on the Internet

Use only a credit card, deal only with reputable companies, check privacy and security policies of websites, and be sure to update firewalls and virus-detection software on your computers.